Three Arrested In Toddler Shooting

MODESTO, CA---Modesto Police Detectives have arrested three men in connection with the shooting of a 22-month-old boy during a drive-by shooting that occurred on H Street in Modesto several weeks ago.

On April 25, 2008 at about 7:30 pm, the toddler was in front of his home playing with his six-year-old brother.  The boy's father was a short distance away on the front porch of the house located in the 200 block of H Street.  As a vehicle drove by, a passenger in the vehicle shot at a man who was walking by the toddler's home.  The shots missed the man on foot but the toddler was struck by the gunfire.  The toddler was rushed to emergency surgery and has survived his wounds. 

Detectives and gang investigators began searching for leads and evidence.  On April 26, 2008, investigators followed up on tips that led them to David (30-years-old) and Daniel (32-years-old) Harper.  Both are Modesto residents and on parole.  The two brothers were arrested that day on parole violations and detectives continued their investigation.  The next day they contacted Modesto parolee Roneel Prasad who is 22-years-old.  The three men have been in-custody at the Stanislaus County Jail since their arrests for parole violations. 

Over the past several weeks detectives and gang investigators served several search warrants, gathered evidence and spoke with witnesses.  Detectives believe David Harper is the shooter and both Daniel and Roneel assisted David Harper after the incident.  Today, detectives arrested all three men, who were still in-custody at the jail, for their roles in the case.  David Harper was arrested for attempted murder.  Daniel Harper and Roneel Prasad were both arrested for being accessories to the crime. 

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636.  Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.  For information about this news release contact Sergeant Craig Gundlach at (209) 652-3184.

Sergeant Craig Gundlach
Modesto Police Department
Media Relations
(209) 572-9579
(209) 652-3184

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