2 shot in suspected drive-by

By Mary Joseph, NEWS 9

In the middle of rush hour traffic, gunshots erupted near NW 23 and McKinley. Police said it was a drive by shooting that ended in the parking lot of Auto Zone just a few block away.

Oklahoma City Police Captain David Ellis said one victim was shot in the back and another shot in the arm.

"We have the gang unit out here investigating it and all indications are the victims have some gang affiliation," Ellis said.

The victims were in a dark Caprice and driving Southbound on McKinley near NW 23 Street. There were four people inside.

Amin Salamatian was near when the gunshots were fired.

 "I was working and I hear three shots; I go outside, and I saw one car going east and another one going west," Salamation said.

Bullets hit a backseat passenger and the driver. The driver drove two blocks east to the Auto Zone. That's where police said they asked for help.

Tyrique Hankins was one of passengers in the car. He was not hit.

"We was just riding; he was on his way taking me, you know what I'm saying, to the store," Hankins said.  "And then next thing you know, a car pulled up on us and started shooting at us. And I just ducked."

A female was in the car during the shooting. Police said she refused to give them any information about the crime. Officers also questioned Hankins for over an hour at the scene.

"They was just asking me basically who shot at us and I'm clueless myself," Hankins said.

About a week and a half ago, there was a drive by shooting about eight blocks from Auto Zone at a Church's Chicken. The police spokesperson said he is not aware if the shootings are related.

Police said witnesses gave conflicting information and so right now, they do not have good suspect information.

If you know anything, call Crimestoppers at 235-7300.