Man Faces Murder Charge in Connection to Fatal Exchange of Gunfire, Police Say
Above: Montray Skinner booking photo | Photos courtesy of Fresno PD
The Fresno Police Department has announced the arrest of the primary suspect in a recent fatal shooting on North Fresno Street.
Nathaniel Castaneda
According to a press release issued by Fresno PD, officers from the Central Policing District responded to reports of gunfire on the 600 block of North Fresno Street early on the morning of Thursday, May 11. Two individuals were injured in the incident, one of whom was identified as 45-year-old Nathaniel Castaneda.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered Nathaniel Castaneda lying on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. He was immediately transported to Community Regional Medical Center (CRMC) for urgent medical attention but was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. In addition to Castaneda, another individual, 33-year-old Montray Skinner, was found on White Avenue, west of Fresno Street, suffering from a single gunshot wound to his upper body. Skinner was also taken to CRMC for treatment.
According to detectives investigating the incident, Montray Skinner allegedly confronted another male at the location. It was during this confrontation that Skinner reportedly drew a handgun from his pocket and began firing towards the other individual, who was standing next to Nathaniel Castaneda. In the exchange of gunfire, Castaneda was struck multiple times, resulting in his fatal injuries. Skinner, too, was wounded by return gunfire but managed to flee the scene before being apprehended a short distance away by officers.
Skinner has since been taken into custody.
During the subsequent search of the area, detectives discovered a semi-automatic firearm believed to have been used by Skinner during the shooting incident. It was also revealed that Skinner had an active felony Post-Release Community Supervision (PRCS) violation warrant issued in February 2023. Consequently, in addition to the murder charge in connection to the death of Nathaniel Castaneda, Skinner will face legal consequences for the PRCS violation.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with additional information regarding the incident to come forward and assist in the process. The identities and backgrounds of the individuals involved are still being examined as detectives work to establish a comprehensive understanding of the events leading up to the shooting.
