March 15, 2023 - Riverside County Sheriff Department officials report on March 05, 2023, Thermal Station patrol units responded to the area of 7th Street and Lincoln Street, in the city of Mecca, reference an attempt murder. The investigation revealed a Hispanic male adult fired a single shot at a vehicle that was occupied by a 47-year-old Mecca resident. As the suspect ran away, he pointed the firearm at a witness. The suspect was not located. The victim was not injured during the shooting and was released from the scene. No one else was injured. The investigation was assumed by the Thermal Station Special Investigations Unit.

Joseph Federico Jr.

During the investigation, the suspect was positively identified as Joseph Marco Federico Jr., 35-years-old of Mecca. On March 14, 2023, the Special Investigations Unit located Joseph Federico Jr., in the 91000 block of 7th Street, in the city of Mecca. Joseph Federico Jr. was apprehended without further incident. During the apprehension, Joseph Federico Jr. was found in possession of a loaded firearm.

A search warrant was served in the 91000 block of 7th Street, in the city of Mecca, with the assistance of the Southern Coachella Valley Community Service District Team. At the conclusion of this investigation, there was evidence to support this was an isolated incident.

Joseph Federico Jr. was booked at the John Benoit Detention Center in the city of Indio, for Attempt Murder and Felon in Possession of a Loaded Firearm.

The Thermal Station Special Investigations Unit is asking anyone with additional information to contact Investigator Glasper at the Thermal Sheriff’s Station by calling (760)-863-8950. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Valley Crimestoppers at (760) 341-7867.
Source: Riverside County Sheriff Department