Teen arrested for gang shooting at West Valley City restaurant

The pop of gunfire pierced the air of a West Valley City parking lot early Friday morning, bringing police to the scene where they arrested a 16-year-old suspected gang member.

The shooting happened at a Rancheritos near 3300 South and 5600 West about 3:30 a.m., according to West Valley City police Lt. Lamote Cox.

Moments before the shots were fired, two groups of teenagers were eating at the Mexican restaurant. Cox said they likely had some sort of altercation. He also said both groups are suspected of having gang affiliations.

Soon, one group pulled out of the parking lot in a Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Cox said. As they drove away, a 16-year-old boy fired several shots with a stolen gun out the car window at the other group. Police were nearby and responded quickly enough to stop the vehicle with the suspected shooter inside.

The other group of teens left the scene before police could stop them.

Cox said police booked the suspected shooter into juvenile detention. Six other teens who were in the car were released to their parents but also may face charges for the incident.

Police have been unable to find any victims of the shooting. Cox said officers checked with local hospitals but the search didn't turn up any results. As a result, he said it was likely the gunfire didn't hit anyone, though officers continue to investigate the incident and search for possible victims.

Cox said the teen who allegedly fired the gun could face charges for having a stolen weapon, firing from a moving vehicle, obstructing justice, tampering with evidence and other crimes. Prosecutors are screening the case.

jdalrymple@sltrib.com

Twitter: @jimmycdii