Warden man dies in gang related shooting

OTHELLO — Ismael Garcia Jr., 19, Warden, died after involvement in a gang-related shooting in Taggares Park near Othello Wednesday night.

Two gangs reportedly congregated at the park where Garcia was shot, Adams County Sheriff Doug Barger stated. He was shot twice and transported to Othello Community Hospital by a private vehicle, where he was pronounced dead.

“An altercation took place at the park between two small groups,” he stated. “As the incident escalated a handgun was displayed and several shots were fired, two of them striking the victim. That group fled the area on foot. The group with Garcia took him to the Othello Community Hospital.”

Barger stated further information about Garcia’s injuries would not be released until the coroner’s office completes an autopsy.

“Deputies secured the scene at the park and interviewed several witnesses and will continue that process,” he stated. “The Adams County Sheriff’s Posse guarded the crime scene so the investigators could finish processing the scene during daylight hours.”

Anyone with information about the incident, or anyone who witnessed the shooting, is asked to contact Det. Dale Wagner or the sheriff’s office at 509-488-2061.