Teenage suspect arrested in shooting death of Los Banos man, police say

A suspect has been arrested in connection with the shooting death of a 20-year-old Los Banos man, according to authorities.

A 15-year-old suspect was arrested Monday in connection with the March 24 shooting death of 20-year-old Andrew Thompson, according to a Los Banos Police Department news release. Due to the suspect’s age, police have not released his name.

Police said the shooting occurred in the garage of a residence during a house party in the 400 block of Ranchwood Drive. The shooting is believed to have occurred shortly after a fight took place at the residence and investigators said they do not believe Thompson was involved in the fight.

Authorities said investigators identified the 15-year-old as a suspect in the shooting and worked with the Merced County District Attorney’s Office to secure an arrest warrant for the teen on suspicion of murder. The suspect was arrested during a traffic stop in the 1200 block of Pacheco Boulevard at about 10 a.m. Monday, after investigators observed him leaving a residence during a surveillance operation, according to the release.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Detective Michael Neal at 209-827-2520. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 209-827-2545.