Full Notification

At approximately 8:00 p.m. on 12-16-14, a male adult victim was confronted by two self-described gang members in the area of Shalimar Drive and Pomona Avenue. One suspect is identified as Carlos Ortega, age 23, the second a 17-year-old male (name withheld due to age). A physical altercation ensued and a 2nd male victim, adult relative of the initial victim, came to his aid. During the altercation, the 2nd victim sustained a stab wound, described as a superficial laceration by one of the suspects. A small knife was described as the weapon used. Both suspects subsequently fled the location on foot.

Both suspects returned a short time later, again confronting both victims. The suspects claimed to be gang members and allegedly threatened both victims that they would be killed, before again fleeing the area. Responding officers subsequently located both suspects in the area of Pomona Avenue and Plumer Street, with both suspects fleeing from officers on foot. Both were taken into custody without incident after a foot pursuit by officers. The weapon used was not recovered.

At approximately 9:30 p.m., another male subject, identified as Raul Munoz, approached one of the victims as he was speaking with a Costa Mesa Police Officer. Munoz, speaking in Spanish, told the victim that “they would see what happens” if they talked (to police). The officer, understanding Munoz threatening and intimidating the victim, arrested Munoz for witness intimidation.

As previously indicated, the injured victim received a superficial laceration. He refused medical attention.
Carlos Ortega was arrested and booked into the Costa Mesa Jail for assault with a deadly weapon, with gang crime enhancements. He is being held on $25,000 bail.

Raul Munoz was arrested and booked into the Costa Mesa Jail for witness intimidation. He is being held on $20,000 bail.

The 17-year-old male suspect was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon, with gang crime enhancements and subsequently booked without bail into Orange County Juvenile Hall.

Given on-going aspects of the investigation, no photos of the arrestees are being released, nor are the identities of the two male adult victims. Neither victim has any gang affiliation, nor were the suspects known to them.

There is no additional information for release.