Five teenagers wounded in El Paso apartment complex shooting
Police say an apparent fight preceded the gunfire; five teens aged 15 to 17 were injured, one in life-threatening condition, as investigators pursue leads; a 15-year-old is in custody.
EL PASO, Texas — Five teenagers were wounded Monday night in a shooting at an apartment complex, authorities said.
A group in an outdoor area within the apartment complex appeared to be about to get in a fight when a male started shooting into the crowd, El Paso Police Department officer Adrian Cisneros said.
Two females and three males, all between 15 and 17 years old, were transported to local hospitals, Cisneros said. Officials described one of the patients as potentially having a life-threatening injury, with the others sustaining non-life-threatening injuries.
"A group in an outdoor area within the apartment complex appeared to be about to get in a fight when a male started shooting into the crowd," Cisneros said.
Law enforcement officers had one 15-year-old in custody as of early inquiries, but authorities have not determined whether that juvenile was the shooter or involved in the incident, Cisneros added.
Investigators are interviewing witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage to determine the sequence of events and any possible motive. They are also checking for additional suspects and trying to identify anyone who may have aided the shooter after the incident, according to police.
The shooting occurred in El Paso, a city along the U.S.-Mexico border. Police did not release additional details about the complex or the exact time of the shooting, and they cautioned that information may be updated as the investigation continues.
Officials urged residents with information to contact the El Paso Police Department or crime stoppers, noting that tips can be provided anonymously. As the investigation unfolds, hospital officials and family members are coordinating care for the injured teens.
The incident underscores ongoing public-safety concerns in urban areas near the border, where crowds and gatherings can involve youths and young adults. Police said they will release further updates as more information becomes available, and they reiterated their commitment to pursuing all leads to determine responsibility and prevent future violence.