10-Year-Old Boy Wounded in Shooting Near Villa Parke in Pasadena

Gunfire near Villa Parke in Pasadena on Sunday afternoon left a 10-year-old boy seriously wounded, authorities said.

The shooting was first reported about 3 p.m. in the area of Parke Street and Garfield Ave., according to Pasadena police Lt. William Grisafe.

The young victim was conscious and alert when taken to a hospital with multiple gunshot wounds, officials said. An update on the boy’s condition was not available.

The child was playing in front of his home when he was shot, Lt. Mario Ortiz said. Investigators suspect he was not the intended target, but became caught in a crossfire.

Police initially described the attackers as two to three male suspects.

“Preliminary investigation revealed the suspect(s) exited a vehicle and fired multiple bullets, striking the victim,” police said in a written statement. “The suspect(s) re-entered their vehicle and fled the area in what is described as a late-model, light-colored, four-door sedan.”

“There is nothing to indicate the 10-year-old was the intended victim and the motive remains unknown,” according to the statement.

Neighbors reported hearing a large number of gunshots fired in rapid succession.

No further details were available.

Anyone with information can reach the Pasadena Police Department at (626) 744-4501. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

An online fund set up to help the family of the victim, identified by loved ones as Mario Ramirez, at https://www.gofundme.com/f/recovery-for-mario-ramirez garnered more than $3,000 in donations within an hour of being posted on Monday night.

“Family and friends continue to pray for Mario every day, he is currently in stable condition,” according to a statement accompanying the fundraiser. “Upon full recovery, Doctors advise that Mario will require extensive physical therapy among other things to aid in his recovery process.”

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