"Our whole neighborhood became a crime scene investigation. It's really scary," said one neighbor who didn't want to be identified.
The neighbor says their family thought they heard fireworks, but it turned out to be gunshots, just feet away from where they live.
"Nothing like this really happens, so it is a scary experience. Especially because I do have siblings here," said the neighbor.
Merced police received calls for the shooting a little after 5:30 pm at Osito Apartments on Midge and Glen Avenues.
When they arrived, they found a 21-year-old man who had been shot in his upper torso.
"At this time, it does appear that there was some sort of physical altercation before the shot being fired," said Merced Police Lieutenant Jose Barajas.
Neighbors and family gathered in the area as responding officers tried to help the victim, but he was pronounced dead not long after first responders arrived.
"Definitely, our hearts go out to the family. We understand it's a very traumatic scene, a very traumatic event for the family," said Lt. Barjaras.
Authorities said the suspect left the scene of the crime.
Lt. Barjaras said this is the second shooting in the last two days.
Merced Police responded to a shooting in South Merced on Sunday night.
They found a man who was suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after he was found by officers.
"It's definitely alarming to have two shootings in our community, and like you said, in a short time span. However, as we mentioned, both of these incidents appear to be isolated. We don't believe anyone else would be put in danger in regard to this," Lt. Barjaras.
As the victim's family mourns a life lost, police are still on the hunt for the suspected shooter.
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