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Citrus Heights Messenger

Citrus Heights teen killed in Carmichael shooting

May 30, 2022 12:00AM ● By By Shaun Holkko, assistant editor

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - A Citrus Heights teenager was found dead following a shooting at a large apartment complex party in the 4400 block of Manzanita Avenue in Carmichael on May 28.

According to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, 911 calls began incoming at 1:15 a.m. in the early hours of Saturday morning, May 28. The victim was identified as 17-year-old Mesa Verde High School 11th grader Antonio Rocha by the school’s Principal Jennifer Petersen.

Sac County Sheriff’s deputies arrived on scene at The Continental Apartments complex and found Rocha suffering from a gunshot wound. He was later pronounced dead at the scene by Sac Metro Fire and there is currently no suspect as the investigation is still ongoing according to the sheriff’s office.

This is not the first time a minor has been shot and killed at a complex on the 4400 block of Manzanita Avenue. In 2018, a 16-year-old was shot and killed by a 13-year-old on the same block according to the sheriff’s office.

A GoFundMe page has been set up by Rocha’s godfather to help support the family with funeral service costs. The fundraiser has currently raised over $23,000. According to the page, Rocha was a two-sport athlete who played football and wrestling.

Those with information are encouraged to call the Sac County Sheriff's Office at (916) 874-5111. For those with information who want to remain anonymous, call the Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at (916) 443-HELP (4357).