Neighborhood on edge after recent shootings

MOSES LAKE - The recent drive-by shootings in the Larsen Housing Area near Moses Lake has residents on edge and one man has had enough.

Gordon Robinson, 73, put his Arlington Drive home up for sale just one day after a 16-year-old boy was shot and wounded while riding his bike nearby. Robinson may have saved the boy's life, letting him into his home after he was chased into Robinson's backyard. The boy was able to make it to the front door, telling Robinson to let him in and someone was trying to kill him.

Robinson said he called 911 when he first heard gunshots from down the road, then at least five shots rang out in his backyard, leaving several bullet holes in his shop. Monday's shooting came just two days after another drive-by shooting on the same street that left two vehicles damaged by gunfire.

"This is bad. This is really bad," Robinson said. "There's got to be a change because it's going to get worse and worse. The law is not working for the people it's supposed to."

Robinson expressed concern the Grant County court system is too lenient, allowing convicted criminals to return to the streets, only to be arrested again.

"We really need to solve the problem," he said. "People need to have their voices heard. If you look at the court system and the way it works, this is bad."

Robinson added there is a level of fear with residents who hesitate to report criminal activity because of possible retaliation.

"Moving into this neighborhood was the biggest mistake I ever made," he said. "This is the worst environment I've lived in."

While Robinson is ready to leave his home of 18 years, other residents also voiced concerns Monday night following the shooting, many planning for their children to stay at a family member's home.

Robinson added Monday's shooting could have ended up worse as children are usually playing in nearby backyards and many are usually walking home from school at the time of the shooting. There was no school Monday because of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

"The whole thing that really bothers me is these people (criminals) could care less about anybody or anything," he said.

Robinson said he had never seen the boy shot Monday. He never hesitated to let him inside his home, but did fear the shooter might follow.

Robinson reflected on his time living in the neighborhood, remembering when he could have barbecues in the backyard without the fear something could happen. He now keeps a gun by his side, taking it with him when he leaves his house. While he doesn't know where he will move to, he said it's time for him to leave.

"I don't want to leave here in a box," he said.