Santa Rosa, California – Two teenage boys were injured Sunday evening after a single bullet struck both victims during an armed robbery at the Santa Rosa Transit Mall, according to local authorities.
Shooting Reported at Busy Transit Location
Police said the shooting was reported at approximately 6:26 p.m. Sunday at the transit mall located along 2nd Street. Officers arriving at the scene found a 15-year-old boy suffering from a through-and-through gunshot wound to his upper shoulder and mid-back area.
The injured teen was transported to a local hospital for treatment and was later released. Authorities confirmed his injuries were non-life-threatening.
Second Teen Struck Minutes Later by Same Bullet
About 21 minutes later, at around 6:47 p.m., officers were notified that a 14-year-old boy had also been taken to a hospital with a graze wound to the waist.
Investigators later determined that the same bullet that struck the 15-year-old had continued on and caused the injury to the younger teen. Like the first victim, the 14-year-old was treated and later released.
Robbery Led to Violent Encounter
According to police, the shooting occurred after four teenage boys were waiting for a bus at the transit mall when they were approached by two men wearing dark clothing and ski masks.
Authorities believe the suspects are adults, though exact ages have not been released.
Police said the suspects demanded personal belongings from the teens. During the confrontation, one suspect displayed a handgun, escalating the situation.
Victim Pistol-Whipped Before Being Shot
During the robbery, police said the 15-year-old victim was pistol-whipped on the side of the head. Moments later, he was shot once in the shoulder, sending the bullet through his body and ultimately striking the second teen nearby.
The other teens were not physically injured during the incident.
Suspects Fled Toward Juilliard Park
After the shooting, the suspects fled the scene on foot in the direction of Juilliard Park. As of the latest update, no arrests have been made, and investigators have not released detailed suspect descriptions.
Police said the case remains under active investigation.
Community Safety Concerns
The incident has raised concerns about youth safety and violent crime in public transit areas, especially during early evening hours when foot traffic remains high.
Authorities are urging parents and guardians to speak with teens about situational awareness and to report any suspicious activity immediately.
How to Provide Information
Anyone with information related to the shooting or the suspects’ identities is urged to contact Santa Rosa police at 707-543-3590. Tips can be provided anonymously.
Conclusion
Both teens are expected to recover physically, but investigators continue to search for the suspects responsible for the armed robbery and shooting. Police say cooperation from the public could be critical in identifying those involved and preventing further violence.
If you were in the area at the time or have information that could help investigators, consider contacting authorities and share your experiences in the comments below.
