Three Arrested, Fourth Sought Amid Ongoing Firearms Investigation by Fresno PD
Above (L to R): Joseph Hunter, Qiwon Whittiker, and Isaiah Pirtle | Fresno PD
The Fresno Police Department has announced three arrests, as well as the serving of five search warrants, in connection to an ongoing firearms investigation. A fourth suspect remains at large, police said.
According to a press release by Fresno PD, the Central Valley Gun Crime Task Force served five search warrants on Friday, May 26; four of the warrants were served at homes in Fresno, and the fifth at a residence in Chowchilla in Madera County.
Joseph Hunter, 19, was arrested on a Ramey warrant for the alleged sale or transfer of a firearm with intent to avoid proper requirements; selling, loaning, or transferring a firearm without a dealer’s license; carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle, and possession of an assault weapon.
Qiwon Whittiker, 25, was arrested on suspicion of being a felon in possession of a firearm, carrying a loaded firearm in a vehicle, and driving a vehicle while allowing a passenger to carry a loaded firearm.
Isaiah Pirtle, 23, was arrested on suspicion of being a felon in possession of a firearm, felon in possession of ammunition, and destruction of evidence.
A fourth individual, identified as 21-year-old Vonkell Holmes, is wanted on suspicion of felony and misdemeanor firearm charges, police said.
The search warrants were reportedly connected to a traffic stop on May 16, which resulted in the arrests of the same individuals.
Police say that the investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information relevant to the investigation is encouraged to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 498-STOP (7867).
