13-year-old Sunnyside gang member booked for Cinco de Mayo shooting
YAKIMA, Wash. — Following weeks of investigation, the Sunnyside Police Department announced that a 13-year-old documented gang member has been arrested and booked into juvie for allegedly firing into the crowd at a Cinco de Mayo celebration on May 6.
According to a press release issued by Sunnyside Police, the Yakima County Prosecutor’s Office generated probable cause to arrest the juvenile after working with local detectives throughout this case.
On the evening of May 17, 2022, the 13-year-old suspect was arrested without incident and booked into the Yakima County Juvenile Detention Center.
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The suspect, whose name is being withheld due to his age, is facing a first-degree assault charge for allegedly striking five people with gunfire in an attempt to hit a rival gang leader. Police initially brought a group of underaged suspects into custody in the wake of the shooting but released them to their parents that night.
In light of this arrest and public outcry, the Sunnyside Police Department offered the following comment:
“The Sunnyside Police Department understands the concerns of our community members and the frustration following the release of the juveniles on the night of the shooting. However, this arrest demonstrates that the members of the Sunnyside Police Department are committed to the safety of our community and adhere to the highest level of integrity and determination, ensuring that arrests are made based on solid evidence.”
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Despite this arrest, the Sunnyside PD remains engaged in an active investigation to uncover further details about this incident. Anyone with further information is being urged to contact the Police Department at 509-836-6200. Anyone with photos, videos, or tips can email them to CrimeTips@sunnyside-wa.gov.
This is a developing story. An update and/or follow-up may be issued once further details are revealed.
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