By Khalida Sarwari
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal gang-related shooting in Castroville Sunday night.
Deputies responded to numerous reports of a shooting at an apartment complex at 8844 Vista de Tierra Circle at about 9:10 p.m..
Arriving deputies found two men suffering from gunshot wounds. One of the victims, found lying in the roadway, was pronounced dead at the scene. He was identified as Juan Ruiz, 35, of Watsonville.
The second victim, 35-year-old Castroville resident Fernando Ruiz, was lying near the apartment complex. He was airlifted to a hospital in San Jose, according to the sheriff’s office.
Sheriff’s Sgt. Rick Statham said Fernando Ruiz was in surgery today and is expected to survive his injuries. It is not yet clear whether he is related to Juan Ruiz.
Investigators learned that prior to the shooting, the victims were approached at a birthday party by suspects who asked them if they were associated with any gangs.
When the suspects were told to leave, they shot at the two victims and a 27-year-old Castroville man, Juan Chavez. Chavez was not injured.
The sheriff’s office is investigating the shooting as gang-related and ask anyone with information to call Investigative Sgt. Terry Kaiser or Investigator Al Martinez at (831) 755-3772 or the tip line at (888) 833-4847.