Shots fired near deputies in Joshua Tree
Authorities are investigating after about five shots were fired near a deputy’s patrol car in Joshua Tree Thursday night. Officials with the Morongo Basin Sheriff’s Station said they weren’t able to determine if the gunfire was intended for them.
The shots rang out around 11:45 p.m. when the deputies were parked on the northwest corner of Mountain View Street and Twentynine Palms Highway.
Deputies said they heard about five shots and saw muzzle flashes east of their patrol car. The muzzle flashes and shots came from the 62400 block of Twentynine Palms Highway in the Joshua Mobile Estates, according to the sheriff’s release.
Authorities found ten .45 caliber spent shell casings and a tactical gun light by the west entrance of the Joshua Mobile Estates.
A witness at the trailer park told deputies she didn’t see the shot fired but saw a dark-colored compact SUV speed away from the area after she heard the gunfire.
Deputies collected evidence at the scene which is now being analyzed at the sheriff’s crime lab.
As they work to identify the suspect(s), officials ask anyone with information about the incident to call the Morongo Basin Sheriff’s Station at 760-366-4175.
If you want to remain anonymous, call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-782-7463.
