Jonathan “JJ” Vasquez Jr. was on a work break when a single gunshot struck him during an altercation at the Oxnard restaurant.
An 18-year-old Santa Paula man remains in critical condition after being shot inside a Five Guys restaurant in Oxnard last week, according to his family.
Jonathan “JJ” Vasquez Jr. was working at the restaurant in the 2700 block of Portico Way when the shooting occurred shortly before 8:30 p.m. Friday. He was taken to a hospital for treatment after suffering a single gunshot wound.
Police said Vasquez was on his break when the shooting happened and was not the person the shooter was apparently trying to hit.
Investigators determined that an altercation involving a 16-year-old suspect and two other people led to a gun being fired. One round was discharged, striking Vasquez. Authorities have not said what started the confrontation.
The investigation led officers to a home in the 500 block of East First Street, where they obtained a search warrant. The teenage suspect was arrested as he was leaving the residence and was booked into the Ventura County Juvenile Justice Center on suspicion of attempted murder. His name has not been released because of his age.
No other injuries were reported in the shooting.
Family focuses on JJ’s recovery
Vasquez’s family said he had been spending the summer working while balancing school, sports and his personal life. They described him as someone who was focused on building his future and hoped to eventually pursue a career in banking, following the path of his mother.
Family members also described Vasquez as kind and deeply connected to the people around him.
“He is deeply loved by his community,” the family said in a statement.
The family expressed gratitude to the people who helped Vasquez after the shooting, including bystanders, first responders and the medical professionals caring for him.
They also thanked community members who have offered support while the family remains at his side.
For now, the family’s focus remains on Vasquez’s recovery. They have asked for privacy as he continues receiving medical care.
The shooting investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not released additional details about what led to the confrontation.
