Carlos Ramirez Chaidez, 17, of Winton, California, was shot at a late-night gathering in Merced County shortly after midnight on April 27, 2025. The shooting occurred on Gertrude Avenue near North Winton Way when occupants of a white sedan reportedly drove by, shouted gang-related slurs, and opened fire. Carlos suffered a gunshot wound to the thigh and died about two hours later despite efforts to save him. Two other people—a 17-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man—were also struck in the legs.

Investigators have said the attack may have been gang-related but the exact motive remains unclear. Carlos’s sister, Monique Ramirez, rushed to the scene and pleaded with him to hold on; the family reported he had told their mother he was going to the fair but instead attended the party. No arrests have been announced and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact investigators.

Did anyone who attended the party or saw a white sedan in the area that night see something that could help the investigation?