Teen Shot Near Cabrillo High School: Police Launch Urgent Manhunt for Suspect

Violent Afternoon Attack Leaves 15-Year-Old Fighting for Life

A 15-year-old boy is in critical condition after being gunned down just blocks from Cabrillo High School, sending shockwaves through the Long Beach community. The brazen daylight shooting—occurring at 3:15 PM near the intersection of 20th Street and Santa Fe Avenue—has triggered an intensive police investigation and renewed concerns about youth violence.

Key Details of the Shooting:

• Location: Residential area 0.3 miles from school campus
• Weapon Used: Semi-automatic handgun (multiple shell casings recovered)
• Response Time: Officers arrived within 90 seconds of 911 calls

Witnesses reported hearing 5-7 rapid gunshots, followed by the victim collapsing near a bus stop where elementary school students regularly wait. "This wasn't some distant crime—it happened where kids walk home with backpacks," said Maria Gonzales, a parent volunteering at the school's crosswalk.

Police Response and Community Impact

1. Immediate lockdown of Cabrillo High and three nearby elementary schools
2. SWAT team sweep of adjacent apartment complexes
3. After-school activities canceled district-wide

The shooting marks the third youth-involved firearm incident within a mile radius this semester. Long Beach Unified officials announced plans to implement metal detectors at all high school entrances starting next month.

What Do You Think?

• Should armed police be permanently stationed at high-risk schools?
• Does the push for metal detectors create a prison-like environment for students?
• Are parents underestimating gang recruitment tactics targeting middle schoolers?
• Would earlier school dismissal times reduce exposure to violent crime?