On Saturday, September 29, 2018 the Merced Police Department dispatch received a call of shots fired in the area of the 900 block of W 8th St in Merced. Officers located a 20 year old male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported to a hospital in Modesto for medical treatment and was listed in stable condition. Witnesses reported two suspects ran from the scene. Officers searched the area and detained gang member David Serena and a 16 year old juvenile running away from the area. A witness identified Serena as being involved in the shooting. Serena was booked at the jail for multiple assault charges with a firearm including attempt homicide and gang enhancements. He was booked at the Merced County Jail. Officer Odom contacted the victim who identified a 17 year old gang member as the shooter and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
On today’s date, Wednesday, October 03, 2018, a follow-up investigation was conducted on the whereabouts of the 17 year old suspect. GVSU and DART officers checked several locations in Merced and surrounded a vacant house in the 500 block of W 7th St where officers received information that he was hiding in. Officers gained entry and located the suspect hiding in the bedroom closet. Officers searched the house and located ammunition and drugs. The suspect was interviewed and admitted to shooting the victim. He was arrested for multiple assault charges with a firearm including attempt homicide and gang enhancements. He was booked in Merced County Juvenile Hall.
Merced Police are asking anyone with any information regarding this crime to contact Gang Violence Suppression Unit (GVSU) Sgt. Rodriguez at (209) 385-4710.
