Stanislaus deputies seek suspect in early-morning shooting in Empire

A male was shot in the area of Downing Lane and McCoy Avenue in Empire early Monday, according to the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department.

He suffered a through-and-through wound to the midsection, not believed to be life-threatening, and was taken to a hospital, Sgt. Luke Schwartz said.

The shooting occurred about 12:09 a.m. Deputies in the area heard the shots and went to investigate. They learned the victim had run inside a residence on nearby North Abbie Street.

Little is known about the circumstances of the shooting, as witnesses were uncooperative, the sergeant said. A group of people was walking in the area when the shooting occurred. The shooter has been described only as wearing dark clothing, Schwartz said.

No identifying information on the victim, including his age, was immediately available.

Anyone with information on the case is urged to contact Stanislaus Area Crime Stoppers at 209-521-4636. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward. Tips also can be submitted via www.stancrimetips.org.

This story was originally published August 5, 2019 at 7:12 AM.