Fresno County residents are being asked for help after a suspected road‑rage shooting on Highway 180 left a 22‑year‑old Reedley‑area man with life‑threatening injuries, including the loss of an eye.
The victim, identified by friends as Angel De La Cruz, was returning from a volleyball tournament with friends on Saturday night when, according to those close to him and investigators, someone in a blue Honda Civic fired a shot that struck him in the head.
What authorities and the community are doing
California Highway Patrol and local investigators continue to search for the suspect. Valley Crime Stoppers is offering a $3,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the shooter.
- Victim: Angel De La Cruz, 22, Reedley area.
- Location: Highway 180, Fresno County.
- Suspect vehicle: reported blue Honda Civic.
- Reward: $3,000 from Valley Crime Stoppers.
Friends and family described De La Cruz as an assistant boys volleyball coach at Immanuel High School and an active member of Redeemer's Church in Reedley. Those who know him said his hospital appearance was shocking and that the community has rallied to support him and his family.
"Just trying to get home. That's all he was trying to do. Trying to get home,"
said Edgar Baltazar, a family friend and colleague, recounting what De La Cruz was doing before the shooting. Baltazar also described visiting De La Cruz in the hospital and seeing him in critical condition.
Community response and how residents can help
Friends and community members quickly organized support efforts, including a car wash fundraiser to assist with medical and related expenses. Erica Magarian, executive director of Valley Crime Stoppers, urged residents to come forward with any information.
"Even the most minute detail can help CHP or any agency help solve a case,"
Magarian said. Officials did not release additional identifying details about the suspect beyond the vehicle description.
Investigators ask anyone with information about the shooting, the blue Honda Civic, or the events leading up to the incident to contact the California Highway Patrol or Valley Crime Stoppers. The reward offer may be eligible to tipsters who provide actionable leads.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Victim | Angel De La Cruz, 22 |
| Injury | Shot in the head; lost an eye; hospitalized with life‑threatening injuries |
| Location | Highway 180, Fresno County |
| Suspect vehicle | Blue Honda Civic |
| Reward | $3,000 (Valley Crime Stoppers) |
Authorities have not announced any arrests. As the investigation continues, local officials and community leaders are emphasizing the importance of sharing tips with law enforcement to identify the shooter and prevent further violence on county roadways.
The shooting has prompted an outpouring of support from teammates, parishioners and neighbors. Organizers say additional fundraising and community events may be planned; details will be shared by those coordinating relief efforts.
Fresno County residents with information are encouraged to contact the California Highway Patrol or Valley Crime Stoppers. Even small details can be critical to investigators working to locate the suspect and hold them accountable.
