CLEARLAKE >> A Clearlake man preparing for work on Wednesday morning was shot several times by an unknown assailant.
Investigators indicated the attack may be related to marijuana. The victim, who was transported to St. Helena Hospital Clearlake by family members, had several growing plants outside of his home.
The incident occurred Sept. 14 around 6 a.m., when officers received reports of gunshots in the 3600 block of Sycamore St. During a search of the area they found spent shell casings in the roadway. Hospital staff confirmed that the victim was being treated for apparent bullet wounds.
The victim later told detectives that he was placing items in his vehicle before work and noticed a man walking along the side of the road. Otherwise there was no warning of the attack.
“The victim didn’t think anything unusual about this and continued with what he was doing,” observed Clearlake Police Detective Ryan Peterson in a press statement. “The male walking in the roadway then began shooting at the victim striking him numerous times.”
After firing his weapon, the man reportedly took off running down the street. The victim was able to distance himself from the assailant before family members rushed him to the hospital.
“The victim provided some information regarding the possible suspect, however that information is not being released at this time as the investigation is ongoing,” Peterson said.
During an initial sweep of the home, officers found several growing marijuana plants. Although they determined the plants were for medicina use, the grow was allegedly not in compliance with code.
Peterson warned that Clearlake suffers an increase in crime associated with marijuana during growing season.
“The Clearlake Police Department would like to caution the public that this is commonly the season for the harvest of marijuana,” he pointed out.
Anyone with information in regards to this case are asked to contact Detective Peterson at 707-994-8251 ext. 320. Further information on the victim is being withheld as the investigation continues.
