Santa Nella, CA (November 4, 2025) — Two Los Banos men were arrested early Saturday morning after deputies responded to reports of gunfire in the Santa Nella area, according to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office.
At approximately 1:23 a.m., Deputy Casas was patrolling near Henry Miller Road, east of Interstate 5, when he heard multiple gunshots. Moments later, a vehicle sped past his patrol car at a high rate of speed. After initiating a traffic stop, the deputy discovered several spent shell casings inside the vehicle, along with a 1911 Rock Island handgun.
The passenger, identified as 20-year-old Ignacio Morales Jr. of Los Banos, was arrested for negligent discharge of a firearm and booked into the Merced County Jail. The driver, 21-year-old Jesus Morales Espinoza, also of Los Banos, was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Authorities reported no injuries or property damage resulting from the incident. The case remains under investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Merced County Sheriff’s Office at (209) 385-7445. Callers may remain anonymous.
