Suspect, 18, Arrested in Connection with Fatal Shooting at Applegate Park
MERCED, CA — “On February 25, 2026, at approximately 2:45 p.m., Merced Police patrol officers were dispatched to Applegate Park located at 1045 W. 25th Street, regarding a report of shots fired and a male subject struck by gunfire.
Officers arrived within minutes and located a 23-year-old Black male suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Officers immediately began life-saving measures until AMR personnel arrived on scene. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
At the time of the shooting, several individuals were present in the park; however, no other community members were injured.
Merced Police Department Detectives responded to the scene and took over the investigation. Through investigative efforts, detectives were able to identify the suspect as Ryan Santos (18). On February 26, 2026, Santos was located and arrested in connection with this homicide.
This investigation remains ongoing. Detectives are continuing to ask for the public’s assistance. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Merced Police Department.”
