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Santa Barbara County – It was almost the noon hour November 10th on the quiet streets of Lompoc when, according to Lompoc Police Department spokesman Sgt. Vincent Magallon, “multiple gunshots” were reported to 911 Emergency Police Dispatch operators.
Patrol units responded to the reported scene with all due alacrity, whereupon officers discovered “a 36-year-oldmale with non-life-threatening injury” caused by an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was transported to Marian Hospital for treatment where he is expected to fully recover.
The immediately ensuing investigation and witness reports identified a specific vehicle “connected with the shooting.” Not long afterward, patrol units spotted the suspect vehicle, conducted a traffic stop, and made contact with 29-year-old Andrew Simons Armstead, 36-year-old Celena Garcia, and 26-year-old Jordan Canely.
All three were detained at the scene while a search of their vehicle led to the discovery of “three firearms, including a non-serialized handgun and a sawed-off shotgun.” Armstead, identified as a felon with prior firearms convictions, was arrested and transported to Lompoc City Jail, where he was charged with being a felon in possession of firearms and with possession of a short-barreled rifle. Garcia was arrested and remains in custody on outstanding warrants. Canely got off easily, merely cited for driving a motor vehicle without a license.
by Robert L. McCullough
