Around 7:00 P.M. yesterday, Susanville police officers responded to a distress call that two people walked into a home on Juaquin Street, flashing handguns at those who were inside.
While en route to the scene, officers were provided with a description of the suspect vehicle. A Lassen County Sheriff’s Deputy spotted the vehicle and swiftly initiated a high-risk stop. Law enforcement detained the vehicle, which was carrying four people. One of the passengers attempted to evade authorities, prompting a search effort. However, authorities were able to capture him hiding behind a nearby home. He has been identified as 21-year-old Daniel Bear Merino-Valdez of Susanville. He was arrested and cited for obstruction, delaying, and resisting a peace officer, as his evasion was meant as a diversion. Further investigation led to the discovery of two firearms inside the vehicle—a 9mm Semi-Automatic and a 38 Caliber Revolver.
One of the victims was able to positively identify the vehicle and two of the suspects as the perpetrators of the assault. Their names have been released: 19-year-old Noah Daniel Del Llano, who was arrested for assault with a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle, and conspiracy to commit a crime. The second person arrested was identified as 20-year-old Kyjuan Lee Castro of Susanville. Castro faces charges of Conspiracy to commit a crime and carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle.
Susanville police extended their appreciation to the Lassen County sheriff’s office and witnesses for their help in quickly resolving the situation without any serious incident. An investigation is underway. Authorities ask anyone with information to contact them immediately.
