18-Year-Old Dies After Salinas Shooting; Suspects Flee Scene as Police Launch Homicide Investigation

Salinas, CA — An 18-year-old male has died following a shooting on Friday evening near Camarillo Court in Salinas, prompting a major police response and a homicide investigation.

Police Respond to Reports of Gunfire

Officers and emergency medical personnel were dispatched to the area after receiving reports of a gunshot victim. When police arrived, they found the 18-year-old suffering from life-threatening injuries. Despite rapid medical intervention, the victim succumbed to his injuries.

His identity has not yet been publicly released, pending notification to his family.

Suspect Vehicle Seen Fleeing the Area

Witnesses reported seeing a black Dodge vehicle with rear-end damage fleeing the scene immediately after the shooting. Investigators believe the vehicle may be connected to the incident and are actively working to locate it and identify the individuals involved.

Multiple Subjects Fled, One Reportedly Armed

According to police, several people ran from the area during the chaos. One male was reportedly seen carrying a handgun as he fled on foot. Officers arrived to an initially unsecured and fluid scene, forcing them to quickly clear nearby streets and establish a perimeter.

Authorities are now conducting interviews, collecting evidence, and reviewing surveillance footage from homes and businesses in the neighborhood.

Alisal High School Temporarily Locked Down

At the time of the incident, Alisal High School—located nearby—was hosting a basketball tournament, with students and families present on campus. As a precaution, the school placed the campus on lockdown until police ensured no threat remained in the vicinity.

The lockdown was later lifted, and no injuries were reported at the school.

Investigation Ongoing; Police Seek Public’s Help

The Salinas Police Department is treating the case as a homicide and is urging anyone with information about the shooting, the fleeing suspects, or the damaged black Dodge to come forward.

Community members can submit tips anonymously through local crime reporting lines.