Four individuals have been arrested in connection with a possible gang-related shooting in Orange County, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
Deputies responded to reports of gunfire near Calle Campana and Calle Canasta in San Clemente around 12:45 a.m. Upon arrival, they discovered shell casings and other evidence suggesting a shooting had occurred.
A vehicle potentially linked to the incident was later located in Dana Point. When deputies attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle yielded in San Juan Capistrano. Two armed suspects fled on foot, but both were apprehended. Two other individuals who remained in the vehicle were also taken into custody.
Authorities recovered two handguns and several rounds of ammunition following a safety sweep of the area.
No victims have been located, and the identities of the suspects and the specific charges they face have not been disclosed. Authorities have not provided further details on the suspects’ motives or their connections to the shooting.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Department crime lab is currently processing evidence as the investigation continues. Officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Earlier this month, San Clemente announced the city was taking steps to strengthen its coastline security in response to a rise in migrant smuggling by boat. City officials are urging federal authorities to install surveillance cameras along the shoreline to enhance security and deter illegal crossings.
Illegal border crossings have decreased under President Donald Trump, whose administration has prioritized securing the border through strict immigration policies. These efforts include limiting asylum opportunities and allowing ICE officers to make arrests at locations previously considered off-limits, such as schools and churches.
While many Democrat-led cities and states have reinforced their sanctuary policies to restrict local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities, some communities are beginning to reconsider their stance on shielding undocumented migrants.
