Following a public appeal for assistance, investigators have arrested a juvenile suspect in connection with a drive-by shooting that occurred in Vista earlier this month.
On August 15, 2026, just before 7:30 p.m., deputies from the Vista Patrol Station responded to reports of a drive-by shooting in the 400 block of Vista Village Drive. Upon arrival, deputies discovered a round fired from a passing vehicle had penetrated the exterior window of the 2N1 Korean BBQ. A patron inside the restaurant was struck by the gunfire and treated at the scene for non-life-threatening injuries.
Initially, Vista Sheriff’s Station deputies and detectives responded to the incident. As the investigation progressed, it was determined the incident involved a potentially gang-affiliated individual. The Vista Street Narcotics & Gang Team (SNGT) assumed the investigation.
Information regarding the suspect’s vehicle was originally very limited. To generate new leads, Vista SNGT Detectives utilized Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR). Investigators noted without the deployment of ALPRs, it was highly unlikely the vehicle would have been identified.
On August 18, 2026, working in collaboration with the Oceanside Police Department, detectives located and arrested the juvenile suspect, a resident of Oceanside. At the time of the arrest, the suspect was in possession of an un-serialized firearm. The juvenile was booked into San Diego County Juvenile Hall.
On August 21, 2026, Vista SNGT Detectives continued to use ALPRs to successfully locate the suspect’s vehicle.
Although an arrest has been made, this remains an active and ongoing investigation and detectives are working closely with the District Attorney’s Office.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Vista Sheriff’s Station at (760) 940-4551.
The public can also call the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477. Visit https://www.sdcrimestoppers.org/ for information on how to send web or mobile app tips.
To view the press release dated August 19, 2026, click here.
