Fortuna Police Department:

On Sunday, May 24th 2021 at approximately 10:48 p.m., Fortuna Police responded to the 1300 block of Ronald Avenue for a report of shots fired. Police contacted a juvenile male who sustained a gunshot wound to the leg. The juvenile was treated and released from a local area hospital and is recovering. During the investigation, police learned that 42 year-old, Fortuna resident, Erik Keith Wood had been identified as the shooter.

Erik Keith Wood. | Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office

While obtaining a search warrant, police attempted to negotiate a peaceful surrender with Erik Wood. A combination of phone calls into Erik Wood’s home by police and use of public address system announcements were utilized to successfully take Erik Wood into custody without incident. Wood was later booked at the Humboldt County Correctional Facility on suspicion of Attempted Murder – (California Penal Code Section 664/187). Additional felony charges will also be filed with the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office.

Although this investigation is still ongoing, it is believed that this shooting may have resulted from the children’s prank known as ding dong ditch, which involves the ringing of someone’s doorbell and running away before the door is answered.

During the execution of the aforementioned search warrant, evidence was located and seized including a 12 gauge shot-gun, which was believed to have been used in the shooting. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Fortuna Police at 707-725-7550.

Any questions regarding this incident can be directed to Casey Day, Chief of Police. Additionally the Fortuna Police Department appreciates the assistance provided by our allied agencies.