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Santa Ana Police Arrest Second Suspect in Gang-Related Shooting

Police continued their investigation following a tragic gang-related shooting in Santa Ana.

News Summary

In a significant development, Santa Ana police have arrested an 18-year-old suspect, Michael Richard Jimenez, linked to a tragic gang-related shooting that resulted in the death of 13-year-old Daniel Vargas. The investigation revealed that the shooting took place following an argument between juveniles. Police previously arrested Raymond Mario Jimenez, 27, who faces multiple serious charges. Authorities are calling for community assistance as they continue to investigate the alarming trend of gang violence in the area, prompting discussions on youth intervention programs.

Santa Ana Police Arrest Second Suspect in June Gang-Related Shooting

Santa Ana has witnessed a significant arrest in connection with a tragic shooting that resulted in the death of a 13-year-old boy. On April 24, 2025, police apprehended Michael Richard Jimenez, an 18-year-old suspect linked to the incident that occurred on June 5, 2024, near 900 W. Bishop Street.

The shooting involved two 13-year-old boys who had a confrontation with another teenager. After the initial argument, the boys attempted to flee toward a nearby apartment building. Minutes later, a suspect drove up to where they were and opened fire. Tragically, Daniel Vargas, one of the 13-year-olds, was struck in the head and subsequently rushed to the hospital. He suffered serious injuries and died two days later. Another victim, a 16-year-old boy who was looking out from his kitchen window during the incident, was also shot in the head but survived the attack, requiring hospitalization. A third boy, who was with Vargas at the time, fortunately escaped unharmed.

Following the shooting, the shooter managed to flee the scene before law enforcement arrived. However, Santa Ana police quickly identified the first suspect, 27-year-old Raymond Mario Jimenez, who was subsequently arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including murder, attempted murder, and shooting into an inhabited dwelling. Additionally, he faces six felony enhancements related to the use of a firearm that resulted in great bodily injury or death.

Following a lengthy investigation, police located Michael Richard Jimenez in Riverside, thanks to collaboration with the U.S. Marshals Task Force. He has been booked on suspicion of attempted murder. The relationship between the suspects and their young victims has not been clarified, but authorities have stated that the shooting is gang-related.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Involvement

The Santa Ana Police Department continues to investigate the case. Authorities are urging community members to come forward with any information that might aid in the investigation. Individuals who have information regarding the shooting are encouraged to contact the Homicide Section at 714-245-8390. For those wishing to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted to OC Crime Stoppers at 1-855-847-6227 or through their online platform.

Background Context

The shooting incident is part of a worrying trend in gang-related violence in Santa Ana, which has prompted local authorities to enhance community outreach and intervention programs aimed at youth. The deaths and injuries resulting from such violence have raised concerns among residents and community leaders alike, leading to increased calls for measures to address gang activity in the area.

As the investigation continues, residents remain hopeful that justice will be served for the young victims and their families, while detectives work to ensure the safety and security of the community.