The Marshall Police Department has arrested Abdiel Vences, 18, Jordan Hernandez, 17, and one juvenile in connection with a drive-by shooting that occurred in the early morning hours of July 25. The arrests were made following a thorough investigation into the incident, which took place just after midnight in the 1200 block of East Bowie.
At approximately 12:05 a.m., Marshall Emergency Communications received a distress call from an individual who reported that they had been shot at. Responding patrol officers quickly arrived at the scene, where they found multiple bullet casings scattered but fortunately discovered that no one had been injured in the shooting. The victim provided a detailed account of the incident, describing how a vehicle had driven by, and shots were fired in their direction.
The initial response by the police included securing the area, collecting evidence, and canvassing for potential witnesses. Bullet casings and other physical evidence were collected and sent to the crime lab for analysis. In addition, surveillance footage from nearby establishments was reviewed, and officers conducted interviews with residents in the vicinity to gather more information.
The subsequent investigation led to the identification of the suspects. Abdiel Vences and Jordan Hernandez, along with a juvenile whose identity has not been released due to their age, were apprehended by Marshall Police. The arrest of these individuals was the result of coordinated efforts by the police department’s patrol officers and detectives, who worked tirelessly to piece together the events of that night.
Abdiel Vences faces multiple charges, including Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity, Failure to Identify/Giving False/Fictitious Information, and Possession of Marijuana less than 2 ounces. Jordan Hernandez has been charged with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity and Unlawfully Carrying a Weapon. Both suspects remain in the Harrison County Jail as the investigation continues.
The charges against Vences and Hernandez reflect the serious nature of the offenses and the potential threat they posed to the community. Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon is a severe charge that underscores the use of a firearm in the commission of a violent act. Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity indicates that the suspects were involved in a broader pattern of criminal behavior, which may include gang affiliations or other illicit activities.
The charge of Failure to Identify/Giving False/Fictitious Information against Vences highlights an attempt to mislead law enforcement, further complicating the investigation. The possession of marijuana charge, while less severe, adds to the list of offenses that the suspects will face in court.
The juvenile involved in the incident has also been taken into custody. Due to their age, specific details about their identity and charges have been withheld, but their involvement in such a serious crime is a matter of concern for the community and law enforcement alike.
Marshall Police Chief Cliff Carruth praised the efforts of his officers and the community in bringing the suspects to justice. “This incident could have had a much more tragic outcome, and I am grateful for the swift response of our patrol officers and the diligence of our detectives. We appreciate the cooperation of the community in providing information that led to the identification and arrest of these individuals,” Chief Carruth said.
The investigation into the drive-by shooting is ongoing, as detectives continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. The police are also working to determine if there are any additional suspects or if the incident is connected to other criminal activities in the area. The possibility of gang involvement is being explored, given the nature of the charges related to organized criminal activity.
Community response to the arrests has been positive, with many residents expressing relief that the suspects have been apprehended. However, the incident has also heightened concerns about safety and the prevalence of gun violence. Local leaders and community organizations are calling for increased efforts to address the root causes of such violence and to implement measures that can prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Marshall Police Department has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. They are encouraging anyone with additional information about the July 25 shooting or other related activities to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the department’s tip line or by contacting Crime Stoppers.
In conclusion, the swift arrests of Abdiel Vences, Jordan Hernandez, and the juvenile suspect mark a significant step in addressing the drive-by shooting that occurred on July 25. The Marshall Police Department’s ongoing investigation and the community’s cooperation will be crucial in ensuring that justice is served and that measures are taken to prevent future violence. As the suspects await their court appearances, the community remains vigilant and supportive of efforts to maintain peace and safety in Marshall.
