A Gilroy shooting suspect was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder by SWAT officers Thursday morning in connection with an incident three months ago in which police said he pulled out a firearm and fired several shots at another motorist following a minor traffic collision.
A Gilroy police spokesperson said the suspect, Arturo Lara, 46, of Gilroy, was arrested shortly after 6am June 1 when members of the Gilroy/Morgan Hill SWAT team conducted a search warrant in the 9000 block of Ridgeway Drive in Gilroy. During the search, Lara was arrested for charges associated with the February shooting.
At about 10pm Feb. 24, Gilroy officers were called to meet a victim in the 8400 block of Wayland Lane. The victim told police they were involved in a minor vehicle collision on Leavesley Road at Monterey Street. The driver of the other involved vehicle refused to stop to exchange insurance information, so the victim followed the suspect through the city until the suspect stopped, according to police.
Police said when the victim pulled over, the suspect pulled out a firearm and fired several rounds at the victim. The victim was not struck despite being seated in the vehicle. The vehicle was struck several times.
As a result of this investigation, Gilroy detectives were able to identify a suspect, which led police to the residence June 1 on Ridgeway Drive.
During the search, numerous unregistered firearms and ammunition were seized, including multiple “ghost guns,” high-powered rifles and high-capacity magazines.
Lara was booked at the Santa Clara County Jail for attempted murder and weapons-related charges.
Police do not think there are any additional suspects outstanding. This remains an active investigation.
Anyone with information can contact Gilroy Police Det. Chris Silva at 408.846.0335.
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Now will DA Rosen prosecute to the fullest extent? Will he seek sentencing enhancements? If not, time for a new DA that will. We cannot afford to drop into the hole that has befallen SF and LA with weak DA’s. Our police officers are risking their lives and doing their part of the job. It’s time to hold criminals responsible.
Well so much for DA Rosen…this man is already out of jail and in his home.
Well so much for DA Rosen…this man is already out of jail and in his home.