Angel Castillo: Suspected gang member, 20, arrested for shooting 3-year-old girl caught in crossfire
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA: A 20-year-old suspected gang member, Angel Castillo, has been apprehended and charged with two counts of attempted murder in connection with the shooting of a 3-year-old girl.
The incident occurred on February 25, around 8 pm, when Castillo allegedly targeted the boyfriend of the girl's mother while they were traveling in a vehicle near the intersection of 15th and Spurgeon streets.
3-year-old girl caught in gang-related crossfire
The mother's boyfriend, identified as a documented gang member, was the presumed target of the shooting, although he escaped unharmed.
"The front passenger is a documented gang member," stated Officer Natalie Garcia, per CBS.
Tragically, the 3-year-old girl riding in the backseat was struck by at least one bullet, resulting in serious injuries. The child was rushed to Children's Hospital of Orange County, where she underwent successful surgery.
In the latest update, her current condition remains undisclosed but she is expected to make full recovery.
Initially, law enforcement had identified the two adults in the vehicle as the parents of the girl. However, Officer Garcia clarified that the individual identified as the mother's boyfriend was not the biological father of the child, reported LA Times.
Angel Castillo charged with multiple offenses
Further, footage from the crime scene revealed a white Nissan Altima with at least two bullet holes—one on the side and another on the rear.
Officers acted swiftly to track down the suspect Angel Castillo, and video evidence played a crucial role in securing his arrest in Santa Fe Springs on Thursday, February 29.
He now faces multiple charges, including two counts of attempted murder, criminal street gang activity, and discharging a firearm causing great bodily injury or death. Castillo was arraigned in Orange County Superior Court on March 4.
Officer Garcia emphasized the importance of community involvement, urging witnesses to come forward with any information that could aid the ongoing investigation.
Detectives can be reached at (714) 2445-8390, and tips can be submitted anonymously to Orange County Crime Stoppers via phone (1(855) 847-6227) or their website.
