In a shooting characterized as a probable hate crime, the Stockton Police Department has taken into custody a suspect associated with the incident. According to police officials, 31-year-old Michael Hayes was seized on Wednesday linked to the shooting of 45-year-old Bobby Gayle on October 8. Surveillance footage captured the shooting targeted at Black man Gayle. The victim is currently admitted to the hospital following seven gunshots.
How the Incident Transpired
Alongside a friend in Stockton, cement mason Gayle Jr. was gearing up to work on Friday evening when a pick-up truck driver nearly hit them. According to Gayle’s brother, Marlon Gayle, his brother threw his hands in the air and called out the driver to slow down. The footage displays the driver getting out and firing many shots targeting Gayle. Marlon added the gunman shouted racial monikers in the midst of the gunning.
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Shot Twice in the Face
Marlon’s brother was gunned twice in the face but is anticipated to recuperate. Marlon stated that notwithstanding the devastating incident, the family is being dependent on their faith to help them overcome the incident. He added that they believe in love. “We believe in forgiveness, but at the same time, white supremacy, hatred, bigotry, and all of that — we stand against that,” reported NBC News.
Hate Crime Charges Underway
The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office recently declared it will be setting form hate crime arraignments. Detectives with the Stockton Police Department arrested Hayes for the Friday shooting. He was assigned to the San Joaquin County Jail. His charges include assault with a fatal weapon, attempted homicide, and weapons charges, reported KCRA 3.
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