Tragic Shooting in Wildomar Claims One Life and Injures Another: Investigation Ongoing

Wildomar, CA – The tranquility of the small Riverside County city of Wildomar was shattered late Friday night as a tragic shooting incident claimed the life of a young male and left another injured. The devastating event occurred on May 9, 2025, just after 10:28 p.m., in the 21000 block of Waite Street—a residential neighborhood not typically associated with violent crime.

Deputies from the Lake Elsinore Station of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department were dispatched to the location following reports of an assault with a deadly weapon. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers discovered two adolescent males suffering from gunshot wounds. Immediate medical assistance was provided by emergency responders, and both victims were rushed to a nearby hospital.

Tragically, one of the young males succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. The second victim remains hospitalized; his condition has been described as stable, and he is expected to recover.

In a statement issued early Saturday morning, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that its Central Homicide Unit had assumed responsibility for the investigation. Detectives spent hours canvassing the scene, collecting forensic evidence, and interviewing potential witnesses in an effort to piece together the circumstances that led to the deadly gunfire.

Authorities have not yet released details regarding the motive behind the shooting or whether any suspects have been identified or apprehended. The incident is believed to be isolated, and officials have urged the public to come forward with any information that might assist in solving the case.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the families affected by this senseless tragedy,” said a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Department. “Our detectives are working diligently to uncover the facts, and we are calling on community members to share anything they may have seen or heard that night.”

Neighbors in the usually quiet residential area expressed shock and concern over the violence. “This is not something we ever expected to happen here,” said one resident who asked to remain anonymous. “My heart goes out to those boys and their families. We’re all shaken.”

The Wildomar City Council is also expected to address the incident at its next public meeting. Meanwhile, local schools and community organizations have begun coordinating support services, including grief counseling for students and residents affected by the tragedy.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Investigator Gilbert from the Central Homicide Unit at (951) 955-2777 or Investigator LeClaire at the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station at (951) 245-3300. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department website.

As the investigation unfolds, the community of Wildomar mourns a life lost too soon and hopes for justice and healing in the days to come.