Merced police arrest two suspects in murder of teen
Watch the video for extended coverage from Action News reporter Sara Sandrik.
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Merced police have arrested two suspects for the murder of a 16-year-old boy. Officers say 20-year-old Franco Ortiz was the driver and a 17-year-old was the gunman. Police are not releasing his name because he is a juvenile. The pair is accused of killing Benito Aguirre. He was found shot to death in the parking lot of Tenaya Middle School last month.
Detectives believe the motive was jealousy over a girl, but they have not released specific details about the relationships between everyone involved. Police say they have had past contact with both suspects.
Aguirre's family members tell us they're relieved and thankful to have both suspects in custody. The family is hoping the teen will also be charged as an adult.
