On May 11, 2023, at approximately 1:49 a.m., Fresno Police Department officers responded to reports of gunfire on the 600 block of North Fresno Street, prompted by two ShotSpotter activations indicating multiple rounds fired in the area. Upon arrival, officers discovered 45-year-old Nathaniel Castaneda lying on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. He was immediately transported to Community Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
During the same incident, officers located 33-year-old Montray Skinner on White Avenue, west of Fresno Street, suffering from a single gunshot wound to his upper body. He was also transported to the hospital for treatment and was listed in stable condition.
Investigations revealed that Skinner confronted another male at the location, during which he drew a handgun and began firing towards the individual standing next to Castaneda. In the exchange of gunfire, Castaneda was struck multiple times, resulting in his fatal injuries. Skinner was also wounded by return gunfire but managed to flee the scene before being apprehended a short distance away by officers. A semi-automatic firearm believed to have been used by Skinner during the shooting was recovered at the scene.
Authorities noted that both Castaneda and Skinner had gang affiliations, though they could not confirm if the shooting was gang-motivated. Skinner, who has a lengthy criminal history, had an active felony Post-Release Community Supervision (PRCS) violation warrant issued in February 2023. Following his release from the hospital, Skinner was arrested and charged with homicide in connection to Castaneda's death, as well as for the PRCS violation.
The investigation into the circumstances leading up to the shooting is ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the process.
