A Friday night football game at Manteca High School came to an abrupt halt when shots were fired near the gym area around 9:27 p.m. According to the Manteca Police Department, a physical altercation outside the stadium preceded the gunfire, and casings were found on the ground. The game against Cesar Chavez High School was called with four minutes left in the third quarter as spectators fled the stands.
No one was injured, and two teenage suspects, ages 16 and 17, are in custody. Police are still searching for a third 17-year-old juvenile suspect connected to the incident. Six officers were already at the school for the game when shots rang out.
The shooting raises hard questions for families across the region about security at high school sporting events and how teens are getting access to firearms. Friday night games are a staple of fall in the communities we cover, and nobody should have to worry about safety in the bleachers. What would make you feel more secure at your local high school games? Let us know on our social channels.
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
