Santa Maria police arrest outstanding shooting suspect

October 2, 2026

By JOSH FRIEDMAN

Santa Maria police arrested the outstanding suspect in a shooting last month that occurred during a botched robbery.

Shortly after 9:30 p.m. on Sept. 18, officers responded to the alley in the 300 block of North Oakley Street over a reported shooting. Investigators determined two Hispanic male suspects approached a victim and tried to rob him.

During the attempted robbery, one of the suspects shot the victim in the leg with an AR-15-style rifle, according to the Santa Maria Police Department.

Responders transported the victim to a local hospital. The victim was expected to survive.

After the shooting, the suspects fled the area in a vehicle.

Officers then located one of the suspects, 32-year-old Irwin Lara, at his residence. Police established a perimeter around the home and eventually took Lara into custody.

Detectives later identified Israel Gonzalez, 21, as the other suspect. They obtained a search and arrest warrant for him.

In the early morning hours on Thursday, with the assistance of the Santa Maria Police Department SWAT Team, detectives served a warrant in the 100 block of North Western Avenue. Police took Gonzalez into custody without incident.

Authorities booked Gonzalez in Santa Barbara County Jail on charges of attempted murder, assault with a firearm, negligent discharge of a firearm, felon in possession of a firearm and attempted robbery. Gonzalez’s bail was set at $1 million.

The incident remains under investigation. Police ask that anyone who has additional information related to the case contact Detective Pelletier at (805) 928-3781 ext. 2063.

Santa Maria police say they remain committed to pursuing those who victimize community members, and they value partnerships with individuals who assist with the process.