3 detained, others sought after multiple shots hit vehicle in Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.  -  Multiple 911 calls came in after three shots were reportedly fired just before 2 p.m. on the Santa Barbara Eastside.

Arriving police found numerous people on the sidewalks and in the street giving an account of what happened.

Witnesses said a black 300 series BMW SUV was struck by multiple gunshots as it went through the area of Punta Gorda and South Salinas Street.   This is near Old Coast Highway.

No one was injured at the scene.

While residents of the area were being interviewed,  a vehicle fitting the description was spotted several blocks away and stopped by police.

Three young men were placed in handcuffs near Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens on Santa Barbara Street and taken to police headquarters for questioning.

They were in a black BMW SUV.  

Bullet holes were located in the front right panel behind the tire,  and in the back right door.

The vehicle was searched by responding officers and towed away as evidence.

Police have not located any injured victims at this time. However, they are expending multiple resources to investigate the incident.

Santa Barbara Police Public Information Officer Anthony Wagner said there was a traffic collision just northeast of the scene of the shooting, but at this time they do not suspect there is a connection between the two.

There are currently multiple police units on the corner of Salinas and Punta Gorda Streets investigating, so drivers are expected to experience delays in that area. Yellow tape has been strung across the street.

Evidence of gunfire has been found at the scene in two different locations near the south side of the street.

Police believe there was an altercation prior to the shots being fired, however, all details are still under investigation.

The caliber of handgun used is unknown.