La Quinta cove crime sparks concerns
Robert Cronin lives on Avenida Obregon in the La Quinta cove.
“It’s very quiet. It’s one of the things I like about it,” said Cronin.
Cronin’s quiet neighborhood turned violent around 3:30 a.m. Saturday when a Riverside County sheriff’s deputy shot 18-year-old Adrian Vivas from La Quinta, a suspect in an armed robbery on Avenida Herrera and Calle Sonora.
The victim of the robbery tells KESQ and CBS Local 2 three men robbed him at gunpoint outside of his home. They first tried to steal his truck and then break into his home. When his alarm went off he went outside and was swarmed by the armed suspects.
The Sheriff’s Department arrived and chased Vivas, who carried a rifle, then officers opened fire when Vivas reached for a knife.
Vivas was taken to a hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. He faces charges of robbery, attempted burglary and conspiracy.
The officers involved in the shooting were placed on administrative leave per department policy.
Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is conducting an internal investigation, as is procedure in an officer-involved shooting.
The victim said he’s not surprised because vandals smashed lights in the neighborhood several weeks ago. The plan was well thought out, he said.
He warns neighbors need to be aware, light their homes and bulk up on security. Cronin agrees.
“I’m shocked. I’m really surprised. I would have a security system for sure. Have an alarm, use it, use it all the time and know your neighbors, that’s important” said Cronin.
Just several hours later there was a home invasion on Avenida Obregon just a few blocks away.
Police arrested 26-year-old Brandon Myers of La Quinta and 20-year-old Hayden Jones of Palm Desert around 10:30 a.m. after officers caught them trying to leave a home they allegedly broke into.
Police said the men entered the house assaulted the homeowner and grabbed several items. The homeowner suffered minor injuries.
Residents said they’re grateful police continue to patrol the streets.
“I suspect they have their hands full doing what they’re doing. I’m sure they’re very aware of it. There seems to be enough of them around so I’m sure they’re aware of what’s going on. I would hope,” said Cronin.
If you have any information about the crimes, call Valley Crimestoppers at 760-341-STOP.