17-Year-Old Injured in Brawley Shooting, just Weeks After Another Teen Was Killed; Suspect Still at Large

BRAWLEY, Calif. – A 17-year-old boy was injured in a shooting early Sunday morning March 16th around 12 AM, just weeks after another teen was shot and killed in the city.

According to the Brawley Police Department (BPD), the shooting occurred just after midnight near Imperial Avenue and River Drive. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots before seeing a white sedan leaving the area.

The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the upper thigh and was transported to Pioneers Memorial Hospital for treatment. He is expected to survive. Officers recovered several shell casings at the scene, leading investigators to believe a handgun was used.

By 1 a.m., police were on scene investigating the crime. Streets were blocked off as officers searched for evidence, and caution tape was seen surrounding the area.

Neighbors in the area recalled the moments surrounding the shooting. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “Around 12:09, I heard gunshots… my husband was outside when it happened and said he saw three little boys running away. About 10 minutes later, we heard the ambulance.”

Another neighbor described hearing multiple shots before police arrived. “Well, like around 12, we heard about 10 shots and at first, we thought it was fireworks, and then around one, a police officer came and knocked to check around our area. That’s it. We didn’t hear any screams, we didn’t hear any yelling, but my dog was barking.”

This shooting comes nearly three weeks after an 18-year-old man was shot and killed around 2 a.m. on March 2 in the 600 block of South 17th Street. In that case, witnesses also reported seeing a vehicle leaving the area.

Authorities have not confirmed if the two incidents are connected, but there is concern that the violence may be gang-related.

The suspect or suspects remain at large. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Brawley Police Department.