Two Injured in Two Drive-By Shootings Wednesday
Yakima Police are investigating two drive-by shootings reported Wednesday that left two with injuries. Officers were first called just after 12:00 p.m. to the area of Garfield Elementary where a 17-year-old boy was shot while walking on Fairbanks Avenue. The teen told police he was shot by someone who drove near him and fired shots. The vehicle then fled the area. The 17-year-old was treated at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital for a non-life threatening gunshot wound. No kids were at school at Garfield at the time of the shooting. Several hours later police spotted a stolen vehicle believed to be involved in a shooting. The driver fled eventually crashing into a school bus at South Eighth Avenue and West Walnut Street. 4 juvenile suspects in the vehicle were arrested but police say two were released. No kids were on the bus operated by Educational Service District 105. The driver had minor injuries.
Late Wednesday afternoon Yakima Police say they believe another drive-by shooting reported at Kiwanis Park was connected to the first shooting. The second drive-by shooting was reported at about 4:30 p.m. Officers found a 19-year-old man who was shot in his leg. He was treated at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital for the non-life threatening injury.
Late last year Yakima Police warned of a possible gang war in the new year that could explode in violence and they were concerned innocent people could be injured. That concern remains real Today as drive-by shootings have the potential to harm bystanders in the areas where the shootings were reported.
Police continue to investigate the shootings Today. If you have any information that could help police call 575-6200.