Full Notification

ARREST MADE IN LA LOMA SHOOTING; SECOND MAN SOUGHT

Modesto, CA – A Modesto man has been arrested by Modesto Police for his involvement in Monday’s La Loma neighborhood shooting. Detectives are looking for a second man as well.

At about 11:15 AM on Monday police responded to the report of a shooting near the intersection of La Loma and Santa Rosa Avenues. The 33-year-old Modesto man was walking with his girlfriend and pushing his infant son in a stroller at the time of the shooting. The victim was struck several times in the upper body and torso and at least one bullet pierced the stroller, however the infant was uninjured. As of last night, the victim remains hospitalized and his condition has stabilized. He is expected to survive his injuries.

The investigation suggested that 19-year-old Modesto resident Travis Lee Stephenson shot the victim near the intersection of La Loma and Santa Rosa Avenues. Detectives believe Stephenson recognized the victim, slowed his car, and fired several rounds. He was last seen driving a silver Honda 4-door sedan southbound on Santa Rosa after the shooting.

Patrol officers and detectives continued their investigation throughout the day. Their investigation resulted in a stop of a silver Honda near 10th and “I” Streets in downtown Modesto early Monday evening. Several people were detained and questioned, however no arrests were made at that time. Detectives do not believe this Honda was the same vehicle used in the shooting.

Police developed information that Stephenson was hiding in a residence in the 14000 block of South Avenue in Delhi. With the assistance of the Modesto Police Street Crimes Unit and the Merced County SWAT team Stephenson was taken into custody at the home at about 9:30 PM Monday night. He surrendered upon request and his arrest was otherwise uneventful.

Police do not believe this shooting was random in nature. The investigation suggests that the suspect and victim were acquaintances and had at least one prior encounter.

Detectives are also looking for a second man. Michael Calhoun, a 39-year-old Modesto resident, is wanted for questioning about his involvement in the crime.

Police ask anyone with information about Michael Calhoun or his whereabouts to call the Modesto Police Department at (209) 572-9500. Tipsters can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636. Tipsters can also text information to by sending a text message to 274637. Just type “TIP704” along with your message.
For further information regarding this press release please contact Sergeant Brian Findlen at (209) 652-1386.

A picture of Stephenson has been attached.