Suspect Arrested for Shooting at Vehicle 

March 1, 2026 – Riverside County Sheriff's Office officials report that on February 25, 2026, at 7:20 p.m., deputies from the Hemet Sheriff’s Station responded to the 25000 block of Florida Avenue, regarding a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies learned the victim was in his vehicle when it was struck by gunfire; however, no injuries were reported. Deputies checked the area but were unable to locate the suspect. During the investigation, the suspect was identified as Juan Carlos Zambrano, a 21-year-old resident of Hemet.

On February 26, 2026, deputies located Zambrano in the area of Mountain Avenue and Old Mountain Avenue, Hemet, where he was taken into custody without incident. As part of the ongoing investigation, deputies served a search warrant in the 43000 block of Palm Avenue, Hemet. Evidence was collected from the location as well as from Zambrano’s vehicle. Zambrano was arrested and booked at the Cois Byrd Detention Center for attempted murder, assault with a firearm, and willfully discharging a firearm in a negligent manner.

This is an ongoing investigation, and no additional details are available. Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Deputy Matthew Zepeda at the Hemet Sheriff’s Station at (951) 791-3400.

Reporting Supervisor: Sergeant Perry Willow

File # D260560068

Source & photo: Riverside County Sheriff's Office