WINTON, Calif. — A tragic night has left the Winton community shaken and grieving after three teenagers were shot at a late-night party, with one of the victims succumbing to their injuries. The Merced County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the heartbreaking news Sunday afternoon, following a swift and heavy law enforcement response to the scene.
Authorities say deputies were dispatched to the 7300 block of Gertrude Avenue, near Lea Court, just after midnight after receiving urgent reports of multiple gunshot victims. Upon arrival, deputies encountered a chaotic and devastating scene — three 17-year-old victims, each suffering from gunshot wounds, found scattered throughout the area.
Emergency medical teams immediately rendered aid and rushed the victims to nearby hospitals. Despite efforts to save them, one of the teenagers tragically died from their injuries, leaving family members, friends, and the broader Winton community mourning an unimaginable loss. The conditions of the two surviving victims have not yet been publicly disclosed, but they are reportedly receiving treatment for their wounds.
The Merced County Sheriff’s Office has launched a full investigation into the shooting. As of Sunday evening, no arrests had been announced, and authorities are asking for the public’s help in gathering information. Deputies are interviewing witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from the surrounding area in hopes of identifying suspects and understanding the sequence of events that led to the violence.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy for our community,” said a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office. “Three young lives were forever changed last night, and one was tragically cut short. We are doing everything in our power to bring justice to the victims and their families.”
The party, which reportedly drew a large crowd of teenagers and young adults, quickly spiraled out of control. Witnesses said they heard an argument break out just before shots were fired, although details remain murky as investigators work to piece together the exact circumstances.
In the wake of the shooting, the community has been left grappling with anger, grief, and disbelief. Winton, a small town where neighbors often know each other by name, is reeling from the sudden loss and the broader sense of fear it has stirred.
Grief counselors have been made available at local high schools, and a candlelight vigil is already being organized to honor the young victim’s life. Community members are coming together to show support for the victims’ families, providing meals, raising funds for funeral and medical expenses, and simply standing in solidarity during this dark time.
“This is not something you expect to happen here,” said one resident, holding back tears. “These kids had their whole lives ahead of them. It’s just devastating.”
The Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone who was at the party or who may have information about the shooter or shooters to come forward. Tips can be provided anonymously, and authorities stress that even small pieces of information could be critical in solving the case and preventing further violence.
As the investigation continues, the Winton community clings to each other for strength, mourning the loss of a young life full of promise and praying for the recovery of the two injured teens. The tragic events of Saturday night serve as a painful reminder of the fragility of life — and of the urgent need to address the roots of violence that have touched even the quiet corners of towns like Winton.
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