CLEARLAKE, Calif. – Police are investigating an early Saturday morning incident in which a Clearlake man was shot by suspects attempting to steal his marijuana.
The 45-year-old Hispanic male victim, whose name has not been released by police, was shot in the chest by suspects he confronted in his marijuana grow in the 3800 block of Mullen Avenue between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. Saturday, according to Clearlake Police Sgt. Nick Bennett.
At approximately 7:11 a.m. Clearlake Police responded to the Mullen Avenue location after the man called for help, Bennett said.
Bennett said officers on the scene learned that the person calling for help had a gunshot wound in his upper body. Medical assistance was requested from Lake County Fire Protection District.
Prior to being transported the victim stated he had confronted four masked and armed male suspects around 3 to 4 a.m., Bennett said.
Bennett said the victim told police he was shot by one of the suspects and they left with an unknown amount marijuana from the residence.
Clearlake Police detectives were notified and responded to take over the investigation, Bennett said.
The victim was taken to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital and at last report was being prepared for surgery, according to Bennett.
Bennett said police are now preparing search warrants for the Mullen Avenue property.
The Clearlake Police Department advised citizens who have a legal Proposition 215 card for possessing marijuana for medical purposes to be especially vigilant for any suspicious persons or vehicles around their property, and to call their local law enforcement agency should they feel threatened.
Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact Detective Ryan Peterson at 707-994-8251, Extension 320.