Man shot in Santa Cruz

A Santa Cruz man was airlifted to a trauma center in critical condition Sunday night, after being shot near the intersection of Barson and Ocean Streets.

Police identify the victim as Jose Luis Mendoza, 23, of Santa Cruz.

Police say Mendoza was walking on Barson Street around 8:45 p.m., when he was confronted by two men who got out of a small, dark-colored 4-door sedan. One of the men produced a small caliber handgun and opened fire.

Mendoza was struck multiple times, but was able to run a short distance after the suspects drove away. Police located him and rendered first aid until Fire Department personnel arrived.

The suspects were said to be wearing hoodies. No other suspect description was immediately available.

Santa Cruz police say the shooting is being investigated as possibly gang-related.