A 14-year-old Lompoc boy shot and killed Friday night in Santa Maria had been wounded weeks ago in another shooting in Lompoc, according to Santa Maria police.
The teen and a 21-year-old man from Guadalupe were shot Friday night during an unsanctioned vehicle meetup in a parking lot at 1335 S. Bradley Road, the former Costco building.
The boy, identified by family members as Monte Zion Tagalu, was pronounced dead at the scene of the shooting, which occurred around 10 p.m.
On Sunday, Lt. Daniel Rios said the incident is believed to be related to gang activity.
“Investigators have also learned that in mid-June 2023, the 14-year-old victim and Lompoc resident in this case was treated for a nonlife-threatening gunshot wound related to an incident in the City of Lompoc,” he said.
Rios said the Santa Maria and Lompoc police departments are collaborating on the investigation.
“Currently it is unknown if the Lompoc incident in June and this case are connected,” he added.
The Guadalupe man who was shot Friday night was taken to a local hospital, but is expected to make a full recovery, Rios said. The man’s name has not been released.
“The Santa Maria Police Department would like to thank members of the public who have come forward with information related to this case,” Rios added.
“We encourage others with information to please do the same.”
Police have asked that witnesses related to Friday night’s shooting, along with anyone who may have any information, contact Detective Erik Hesch at 805.928.3781 x1349 or the Communications Center at 805.928.3781 x2277.
Click here to leave an online tip at the SMPD Anonymous Tip Line.
A GoFundMe account has been established to assist Monte Tagalu’s family with funeral expenses. As of Sunday night, more than $6,400 had been raised.