14-year-old Avenal boy killed in suspected gang shooting

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Police in Avenal are searching for the person who shot and killed a 14-year-old boy Tuesday night. Investigators believe the death of Yovani Hernandez came at the hands of a gang member.

Avenal police and Kings County probation officers searched a home in the neighborhood where Hernandez lived, looking for clues.

Police Chief Russel Stivers told Action News, "We are treating this homicide as gang related its unknown if the victim had any gang ties at this point but based on witness statements we are treating it as a gang related homicide."

Hernandez was gunned down just 50 yards from his home on Mono Street Tuesday night, while walking with a friend. On Wednesday the family home was full of relatives mourning the boy's death.

Through a translator, his father Antonio told us the family is hoping for justice. They are hoping someone comes forward. The family believes the friend who was walking with Hernandez knows something.

Chief Stivers said, "That lead is being followed upon very diligently."

This is the second homicide in Avenal in just one month, according to Chief Stivers.