California Today

Attempted Murder on SR-180 in Fresno County; CHP Seeks Suspects

17 July 2026 05:50

California Highway Patrol detectives are asking for the public's help to identify a suspect wanted for the attempted murder of a 22-year-old Reedley man in Fresno County. The shooting occurred on July 11, 2026, at approximately 9:45 p.m. on eastbound State Route 180, east of McCall Avenue.

Details of the Shooting

The victim, identified as Angel De La Cruz, was driving home from a volleyball tournament with friends when a suspected road rage encounter turned violent. He was shot in the head, causing him to lose an eye. He remains in critical condition. Investigators believe the suspects were in a blue 2025 Honda Accord (some sources describe a blue Honda Civic), occupied by a driver and at least one passenger. According to a new report from FOX26, the incident involved a road rage confrontation between a silver Ford Mustang and a Honda Accord. The Mustang had multiple people inside. The Honda Accord driver pulled up alongside the Mustang and fired a shot. The Mustang then pulled over, and emergency medical personnel responded to the scene. The Honda left the scene.

Arrest Made

On July 17, detectives with the California Highway Patrol spotted the blue Honda driving through Sanger. Officers conducted a traffic stop and identified the driver as Devin Shane Atondo, whom authorities allege was the shooter. Atondo, 23, was booked into jail on several charges, including attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon. The arrest has brought relief to De La Cruz's family and friends as he remains hospitalized. "That's like one less thing to worry about. So it's still difficult, obviously. It's like waiting, like just anxiety of like, what's gonna happen? Is he gonna wake up? Are we... Are we there yet?" said close friend Edgar Baltazar. Baltazar added, "When you have the person out there still, and then you're worried about your son getting better. That's pulling you in different directions. Now you got one direction to focus on, and justice has been served."

Community Response

Family, friends and community members are rallying around De La Cruz. He serves as an assistant boys' volleyball coach at Immanuel High School and is active at Redeemer's Church in Reedley, where he is known for his positive attitude. A car wash fundraiser is scheduled for July 25, and a GoFundMe has been established to support his recovery. "We're not going to fight back with evil. We're not going to be bitter about this. We're going to fight with joy, with prayer, and just continue to do what Angel does, which is lift up the spirits of everyone around him," said family friend Edgar Baltazar.

Baltazar, who works with De La Cruz, visited him in the hospital days after the shooting and said seeing him in critical condition was difficult. "I mean, to me, it wasn't Angel, and I think that's what kind of hurt me the most," Baltazar said. He also noted the immediate community response, with large numbers of people gathering to support De La Cruz and his family. "I know Angel has an impact, but to see that many in the waiting room, like it's just surreal," he said. Baltazar said about 200 cars have already signed up to participate in the car wash fundraiser. "The whole point is coming together for this young man who has done so much for the community, which he may not realize, but we're realizing right in front of our eyes that he is an inspiration," Baltazar said.

How You Can Help

CHP detectives urge anyone who witnessed the incident or has information to contact them directly or Valley Crime Stoppers. All tips remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward of up to $3,000. "Even the most minute detail can help CHP or any agency help solve a case," said Erica Magarian, executive director of Valley Crime Stoppers. Magarian also noted that many tipsters submit information without wanting the reward, simply wanting to do the right thing. Anyone with information can also contact CHP at 559-262-0400.

Local California Context

The incident occurred in Fresno County, a region that includes the city of Fresno and the small community of Reedley. The stretch of SR-180 where the shooting happened is a major east-west route through the county.

Background

Attempted murder cases on California highways are rare but can be challenging to solve without witness cooperation. The CHP Major Crimes Unit is dedicated to investigating violent crimes on state roads.

Conclusion

If you have any information about this incident, please contact CHP detectives or Valley Crime Stoppers. Your tip could help bring justice to the victim and his family.

Sources and Materials

Tags

ReedleyFresnocrimeshootingCHP