Sheriff's Office Investigating Negligent Firearm Discharge in Isla Vista

Update by Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office
May 24, 2021

Sheriff’s detectives are investigating the negligent discharge of a firearm that occurred on Friday, May 21, 2021. At approximately 11:50 p.m. on Friday, deputies were dispatched to the 6600-block of Sueno Road for a report of gunshots heard in the area.

When deputies arrived, they encountered a large group of people leaving the area. Deputies searched the area for possible suspect and requested assistance from a K9 unit. After an extensive search, deputies were unsuccessful in locating the suspect.

In the hours that followed, deputies contacted several potential witnesses and victims and continued to search the area for evidence. Deputies obtained video showing a fistfight that ended when a suspect, who was not involved in the fight, fired a handgun into the air.

On Monday, May 24, 2021, this case was forwarded to Sheriff’s detectives who are conducting a follow-up investigation. Anyone with information about this incident or the suspects to contact the Criminal Investigations Bureau at (805)681-4150. You can also call the anonymous tip line at (805)681-4171, or submit information online at sbsheriff.org/home/anonymous-tip .

Update by Isla Vista Community Services District
May 24, 2021

A violent incident occurred on or near the 600 block of Sueño Road between the late hours of Friday night and early hours of Saturday. As can be seen in a video that is circulating on social media, at least one person was assaulted near a crowd while another individual fired gunshots into the air.

“As of yet, there has been no timely notification to the residents of Isla Vista, leaving Isla Vista residents in the dark about a dangerous incident that occurred in our community. The absence of a timely notification creates alarm and confusion, and prevents local residents from taking proactive measures to keep ourselves safe,” said IVCSD President Spencer Brandt.

“This dangerous situation was chaotic and traumatic for all who were nearby. If you were near this incident and in need of assistance, please reach out for help from a local service provider including: UCSB Counseling and Psychological Services, SBCC Student Health & Wellness Services, or the Community Wellness team,” said IVCSD Director Ethan Bertrand.

“Our Isla Vista community denounces violence and the reckless use of guns. This unfortunate incident is especially poignant, occurring just days before the anniversary of the May 23, 2014 Isla Vista Tragedy,” said IVCSD Vice President Catherine Flaherty.

The Isla Vista Community Services District is committed to working with community members to improve safety at night. For more information, please visit islavistacsd.ca.gov.