Two Arrested in Connection with Shooting at Chualar Catholic Center
Monterey County Sheriff’s Office detectives have apprehended Jesus Julian Rios, 25, and Regino Mendoza Arce, 26, both of Salinas, in connection with a shooting at St. Theodore’s Catholic Pastoral Center in Chualar. The incident, which occurred early on Sunday, November 3rd, 2024, resulted in two individuals sustaining gunshot wounds during a gathering at the center.
Authorities were alerted to the incident around 1:07 AM following multiple emergency calls from the vicinity of Grant Street and Scott Street. Responding deputies discovered two victims with gunshot injuries who were subsequently transported to hospitals. Both victims are expected to recover from their injuries.
Following the incident, Sheriff Tina Nieto expressed her commitment to the investigation, stating that the swift action by detectives aimed to provide reassurance to the community by removing the alleged perpetrators from the streets.
The suspects, Rios and Mendoza Arce, face charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit a crime, and gang enhancements. Their arrest follows detailed investigative work aiming to clarify the circumstances surrounding the shooting and ensure the safety of the Chualar community.
