Stalking, Attempted Murder Suspects Apprehended

Two teens booked for attempted murder, stalking, assault with a deadly weapon, more.

CATHEDRAL CITY — A pair of teenagers in this community have been booked at the John Benoit Detention Centerfor attempted murder, stalking, assault with a deadly weapon and conspiracy.

Jorge Morales, 18, and Jayden Garcia, 19, were booked at the John Benoit Detention Center. Morales was booked in for attempted murder, stalking, and conspiracy. Garcia was booked in for assault with a deadly weapon and conspiracy.

On Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 2:53 a.m., deputies responded to the 45300 block of Garden Square, Palm Desert, regarding an assault with a deadly weapon, according to Sgt. Daniel Milbrandt. The investigation revealed both victims were followed to the location by two suspects, Morales and Garcia, residents of Cathedral City. Morales and Garcia were known to both victims.

One victim was struck multiple times and sustained a single gunshot wound to his face, according to Milbrandt. He was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The other victim, who was uninjured, had allegedly been stalked by Morales for several weeks before the assault.

Palm Desert Sheriff’s Station patrol deputies, the Palm Desert Investigations Bureau, Palm Desert Burglary Suppression Unit, and Desert Regional SWAT apprehended Morales and Garcia as they attempted to flee a residence in the 68700 block of 33rd Avenue, Cathedral City.

Anyone with information on this crime is asked to call Investigator Lugo at 760-836-1600.