SANTA CRUZ, Calif. - Santa Cruz Police are investigating the shooting death of a 13-year-old boy Wednesday night. According to his family the 13-year-old was named Joey Mendoza and he was just steps from his home.
It happened on the 100 black of San Lorenzo Boulevard and Bixby Street at around 8:00 p.m. Wednesday night.
Santa Cruz Police say the teen was shot twice while walking home. A good samaritan as well as an officer tried to save the teen by performing CPR but were unsuccessful. Police say the boy died on the sidewalk.
Witnesses reported a van driving by firing two shots. Santa Cruz Police confirm they're looking for a black Lexus and a white Chrysler van that may be involved. The van has a license plate number of 6NW634.
According to Santa Cruz Police, the teen is a well known gang member to the Santa Cruz Gang Unit.
A portion of San Lorenzo Boulevard was shut down as officers investigate.
