Freeway Shooting Victim in Seclusion
A 20-year-old Vista man who was shot in the head and leg while riding in a car on a freeway remained in critical condition Sunday. Investigators are not releasing his name or the hospital location to protect the victim, officials said.
The shooting occurred about 9:20 p.m. Saturday on the northbound Santa Ana Freeway between San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, said Sheriff’s Department Lt. Jay Mendez.
Mendez said the victim was riding in a car being driven by a friend when another car pulled alongside, and several shots were fired into the passenger’s side. The victim was struck at least twice, Mendez said.
The unidentified attackers drove away. The victim’s friend drove to a nearby gas station on Ortega Highway and called for help.
“The motives are unknown. I don’t know if it’s gang-related or not, and we’re trying to keep (the victim’s) ID and location a secret right now” to ensure his safety, Mendez said.
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