15-year-old killed in Desert Hot Springs shooting
A 15-year-old boy was shot around 9:10 p.m. Tuesday in what appeared to be a drive by shooting, according to Desert Hot Springs police. He was taken to Desert Regional Medical Center where he later died.
It happened near the intersection of Verbena Drive and Desert View Avenue, next to Cabot Yerxa Elementary School.
The teen’s death marks the fourth homicide reported in the city in 2015. There were eight murders in Desert Hot Springs in 2014.
“No one wants these numbers. We’re actively trying to find ways to curve the violence in Desert Hot Springs,” said Commander Jim Henson, Desert Hot Springs Police Dept.
September Witzel lives across the road from where the teen was shot. She said it’s gut-wrenching the shooting broke out next to Cabot Yerxa Elementary and so close to home.
“That’s sad. I’ve got babies, siblings who walk the streets. What could happen to them?” said Witzel.
Witzel said she plans to start a community watch program in her neighborhood to help police.
“They have been trying, I see them all of the time. A community watch would help us if we band together to protect out young,” said Witzel.
Police aren’t saying anything about a possible motive or a description of the shooter at this time. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing.
We’ll keep you updated as new information is released.
If you have any information about the shooting, call Valley Crimestoppers at 760-341-STOP. Tips can remain anonymous and you could be eligible for a cash reward.
