Investigation Underway After Two People Shot in Northeast Fresno; Authorities Urge Public to Help Identify Suspects and Provide Information on the Late-Night Attack
Fresno, CA – April 11, 2025 — A peaceful Friday evening in a northeast Fresno neighborhood turned into a crime scene after gunfire erupted near the intersection of Chestnut and Ashlan Avenues, leaving two people injured and triggering an urgent investigation by local authorities.
Just after 9:00 p.m., Fresno Police received multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots in the area. Responding officers arrived swiftly to find two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds on the sidewalk near a small commercial plaza. The victims, who have not yet been publicly identified, were immediately transported to a nearby hospital for emergency medical care. As of Saturday morning, their conditions remain unknown.
“It Was Chaos” — Neighbors Describe the Scene
Witnesses told local media that the sound of gunfire startled nearby residents and sent pedestrians scrambling for cover.
“I was sitting outside with my kids when we heard five or six loud pops — then people screaming,” said Jasmine Lee, who lives in an apartment complex nearby. “We ran inside and locked the door. It was chaos.”
Several witnesses reported seeing a dark-colored sedan speeding away from the scene moments after the shots rang out. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is currently being reviewed by investigators.
Police Urge Community to Come Forward
Fresno Police say the motive behind the shooting is still unclear, and they have not yet announced any suspects or arrests. Authorities believe the shooting may have been targeted, but are not ruling out any possibilities, including gang involvement or a personal dispute.
Lt. Mark Dawson, speaking at a brief press conference late Friday night, urged community members to come forward with any information that might aid the investigation.
“We are asking anyone who saw something, heard something, or has video footage from the area between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. to please contact the Fresno Police Department,” Dawson said. “The safety of our neighborhoods depends on community cooperation.”
Crime on the Rise in Northeast Fresno?
While northeast Fresno has historically been considered one of the city’s quieter areas, residents have expressed growing concerns over a recent uptick in violent crime. Friday’s shooting marks the third gun-related incident in the area within the last month, according to police data.
“This used to be a safe place to walk around at night,” said longtime resident Maria Soto. “But things are changing. We need more patrols and more accountability.”
What Happens Next?
Detectives with the Violent Crime Unit are canvassing the area for additional evidence and are expected to release more details in the coming days. The identities of the victims will be released once their families are notified.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call Fresno Police at (559) 621-7000 or Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-STOP. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.