Merced County Man Arrested for Allegedly Shooting at Planada Residence
Above: Stock Image
Merced County deputies recently arrested a man for allegedly shooting at a residence.
On the morning of June 24, deputies responded to a report of a shooting on Dana Court in Planada. Dispatch informed deputies that a man on a tractor was allegedly firing at a residence, the Sheriff’s Office said in a press release.
Upon arrival, deputies did not immediately locate the suspect but found a Kubota tractor parked in front of the residence. Deputies reportedly also discovered shell casings at the scene.
Deputies reviewed surveillance video from the area, which showed the suspect shooting toward the house, the Sheriff’s Office said.
While deputies searched the area, dispatch received a call from a nearby neighbor reporting someone with a rifle in their backyard. Deputies searched the backyard and reportedly discovered a man hiding in a shed with the firearm.
The Sheriff’s Office identified this individual as Antonio Mendoza.
Mendoza was reportedly arrested and booked at the Merced County jail on suspicion of shooting at a dwelling, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and felony vandalism.
The tractor, which had been reported stolen, was returned to its owner, the Sheriff’s Office said.
