Deputies are investigating the death of a 14-year-old boy left mortally wounded on a sidewalk in San Marcos Friday night after bystanders reported sounds of gunfire, authorities confirmed.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department (SDSO) said the victim – identified as 14-year-old Brandon Gonzalez – was discovered unconscious, lying on a sidewalk in the 3500 block of De Leone Road around 10:50 p.m. when deputies rushed to the area to investigate reports of multiple gunshots heard near the intersection of De Leone and Hollencrest roads.
Investigators said Gonzalez was mortally wounded, suffering from traumatic injuries. Deputies performed CPR on him and he was taken to a local hospital.
The life-saving measures weren’t enough, however, and the teen died at the hospital, the SDSO said.
Gonzalez’s death is being investigated as a homicide, though further details were not immediately released, including any information on possible suspects.
The victim's family told NBC 7 on Saturday that the teen was gunned down just a few blocks away from his home.
One neighbor told NBC 7 she heard four or five shots before authorities arrived on the street, but she wasn’t sure what led up to the shooting.
As investigators processed the scene of the deadly shooting, a bullet casing remained on the road – the final remnants of the incident.
The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office (ME) ruled the teen's cause of death a gunshot wound to his upper torso, and his manner of death ruled a homicide.
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Deputies believe several rounds were fired and at least one round struck the teen. Gonzalez then stumbled his way down De Leone Road before collapsing on the sidewalk, officials said.
Neighbors were understandably shaken by the violent event in an otherwise tranquil area.
“It happened in front of my house,” one resident said. “It’s pretty crazy. What if I was outside?”
“It’s scary. Police say don’t go out. Close the door and don’t go out,” another neighbor added. “I don’t know what to say about this. I’ve lived here for seven years and nothing like this ever happened.”
Deputies said the shooting may be gang-related, but the investigation is ongoing and anyone with information should contact the SDSO Homicide Detail at (858) 974-2321 or (858) 565-5200, or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477. Tipsters can remain anonymous and could be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest in this case.
