NEEDLES, CA – A deadly shooting early Wednesday morning in a Needles neighborhood has left one person dead and two others seriously injured, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBCSD). The shooting occurred in the 1900 block of Erin Drive, a residential area near the Riverview Terrace Apartments, around 6:39 a.m. on July 23, 2025. The authorities were quick to respond after receiving reports of multiple gunshot victims in the area, leading to an active investigation by the SBCSD Homicide Detail.

Details of the Incident

When emergency crews arrived at the scene, they discovered three victims who had sustained gunshot wounds. Tragically, one individual was pronounced dead at the scene, while the two other victims were airlifted to nearby hospitals via Classic Air Medical. The severity of their injuries has not been disclosed, but the airlifted victims are receiving critical treatment.

According to dispatch records, there was a prior call to the same block at 5:44 a.m. reporting an assault, though law enforcement has not confirmed whether this earlier incident is related to the shooting that followed.

Law Enforcement Response and Investigation

Upon discovering the victims, law enforcement quickly established a wide perimeter around the crime scene, including a road closure at the intersection of Erin Drive and Coronado. Authorities urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to work without interruption. San Bernardino County Fire Department also requested mutual aid from the Mohave Valley Fire Department, which sent additional medics, fire engines, and a duty chief to assist with the medical response.

Air Ambulance Support

In a coordinated effort, authorities temporarily closed the southeast corner of Highway 95 and Barrackman Road on the Arizona side of the Colorado River. This was done to establish a landing zone for the air ambulances, ensuring that the victims could be transported swiftly to medical facilities for life-saving treatment.

Witness and Community Reactions

Residents in the neighborhood were shocked by the intensity of the police response, reporting extensive police activity and full road closures stretching from Coronado to Earl Court, blocking all access points along Erin Drive. Many in the community expressed concern over the violence and the uncertainty surrounding the incident. The tragic event has understandably shaken the local residents, particularly given the relatively quiet nature of the neighborhood.

Investigation and Search for Motive

The SBCSD has confirmed that no arrests have been made at this time, and authorities are still investigating the motive for the shooting. The circumstances surrounding the incident, including potential suspects and whether the shooting was targeted or random, remain unclear.

Sheriff’s Lieutenant has assured the community that the Homicide Detail is handling the investigation with the utmost attention to detail. SBCSD also stated that further updates will be released as more information becomes available.

Authorities’ Call for Information

As the investigation continues, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through local crime reporting services, including Crime Stoppers. The department emphasized that community cooperation is critical in solving the case and ensuring that justice is served for the victims.

Community Impact and Safety Concerns

This tragic event has brought heightened concern about public safety in Needles. Local officials and residents are urging anyone with knowledge of the incident to share it with the authorities to aid in resolving the case. The shooting serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with violence in residential areas, and it has led many to reflect on the safety measures needed to protect communities across the region.

The Future of the Investigation

At this stage, the SBCSD has not released the identities of the deceased or the injured victims, and the investigation is still in its early stages. Authorities are continuing to review surveillance footage, collect witness statements, and analyze the evidence at the scene. As more information comes to light, updates will be shared with the public.

This is a developing story, and the sheriff’s office is committed to keeping the public informed as they work to uncover the truth behind this deadly shooting.

If you have any information or were in the area during the incident, please contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department – Needles Station at 760-326-9200. Alternatively, tips can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-78-CRIME.