CHP arrests Sanger man in connection with Highway 180 shooting

SANGER, Calif. (KFSN) -- A man suspected of shooting 22-year-old Angel De La Cruz on Highway 180 in Fresno County is now in custody after nearly a week of searching, bringing relief to De La Cruz's family and friends as he remains hospitalized.

The shooting happened July 11 as De La Cruz and two friends were driving home from a volleyball tournament when they became involved in an altercation with the driver of a blue Honda. Moments later, De La Cruz was shot in his right eye, which he lost as a result.

"Everything changed, like the weight of the room too. Like everything just became lighter," close friend Edgar Baltazar said.

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.

Baltazar said the arrest has eased some of the anxiety facing De La Cruz's loved ones as they wait for updates on his condition.

"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?" Baltazar said.

De La Cruz remains in the hospital, but Baltazar said the arrest has allowed family members to focus on his recovery.

"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," Baltazar said.

De La Cruz is an assistant boys volleyball coach at Immanuel High School and a member of Redeemer's Church in Reedley. His case has drawn significant support from the community.

A car wash fundraiser is scheduled for July 25. Baltazar said about 200 cars have already signed up to participate.

"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.

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