OXNARD, Calif. – A local teen faces serious criminal charges after a shooting at The Collection shopping center in August left an innocent employee with a gunshot wound to the neck. The incident, captured on surveillance video, shows the 16‑year‑old pulling a firearm while being pursued by two men and firing a single round.
Charges and Court Proceedings
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office says the juvenile is now 17 and has been charged with shooting at an occupied building, buying or receiving a firearm in violation of a court order, and assault with a semi‑automatic firearm. He entered a not‑guilty plea during his arraignment in juvenile court on Monday morning.
Prosecutors Seek Adult Trial
Supervising Senior Deputy District Attorney Blake Heller, who is prosecuting the case alongside Deputy District Attorney Lillian Tsao, filed a motion to transfer the matter to adult court. “Adult court is the appropriate venue for this case,” Heller said. “The alleged actions of this young man have forever changed the life of an innocent victim who was simply at work when he was shot. He is fortunate to have survived this violent attack.”
Details of the August Incident
On August 28, 2026, surveillance cameras recorded the teen being chased by two men inside The Collection. The teen allegedly drew a gun and fired one shot in the direction of his pursuers. The bullet missed the two men and struck a Five Guys employee who was working nearby, striking the victim in the neck. The employee was rushed to a local hospital with significant injuries but survived the attack.
Arrest and Custody
Oxnard Police Department investigators located and arrested the suspect the following morning. He remains in custody at the juvenile detention facility pending his next court appearance, scheduled for December 15, 2026.
Community Impact
The shooting has raised concerns among local business owners and residents about safety in Ventura County’s retail corridors. While the case proceeds through the legal system, officials emphasize that the victim’s recovery and the community’s sense of security are top priorities.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the teen’s access to a firearm despite a court order prohibiting possession. The district attorney’s office has indicated that additional charges could be considered if further violations are uncovered.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
