Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s detectives investigate shots fired during fight in Isla Vista
ISLA VISTA, Calif. - Detectives with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office announced they are investigating the negligent discharge of a firearm in an Isla Vista neighborhood late Friday night.
They said it happened around 11:50 p.m. just days before the seventh anniversary of the 2014 Isla Vista Tragedy. Deputies were dispatched to the 6600 block of Sueño Road after receiving a call of gunshots heard in the area.
Upon arriving, deputies reported seeing a large group of people leaving the area. Crews requested assistance from a K9 Unit that helped search the area for a possible suspect. Unfortunately, no suspect was located.
The sheriff's office said deputies spent the next several hours contacting potential witnesses and victims as they continued to search for evidence.
Deputies obtained a video showing a fight that took place in the street. The video also showed the suspect firing a gun into the air in the background.
This case was forwarded to sheriff's detectives on Monday to continue the investigation.
Leaders with the Isla Vista Community Services District released statements on Sunday condemning the violence that occurred that night.
“Our Isla Vista community denounces violence and the reckless use of guns," said IVCSD Vice President Catherine Flaherty. "This unfortunate incident is especially poignant, occurring just days before the anniversary of the May 23, 2014, Isla Vista Tragedy."
Anyone with information about this incident or who may be involved is asked to contact the Criminal Investigations Bureau at 805-681-4150. They can also call the anonymous tip line at 805-681-4171, or submit information online at sbsheriff.org/home/anonymous-tip.
