Two Teens Arrested for Shooting of 14-Year-Old in Long Beach

The primary suspect, a 14-year-old Long Beach resident, and an alleged accomplice, 19-year-old Jian Xavier Salas, were taken into custody.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Two teenagers, one from Long Beach and the other from Lakewood, have been arrested in connection with the shooting of a 14-year-old boy in North Long Beach last month. The 14-year-old male suspect was arrested on February 23rd in Lakewood, while 19-year-old Jian Xavier Salas was booked for attempted murder and accessory after the fact, with his bail set at $75,000.

Why it matters

Gun violence involving minors is a serious concern in many communities, and this incident highlights the need for continued efforts to address the root causes and prevent such tragedies. The arrests also demonstrate the work of law enforcement in investigating and apprehending those responsible for these types of crimes.

The details

The shooting occurred on February 22nd around 12:49 pm, when officers responded to the 5300 block of Elm Avenue and found the 14-year-old victim with multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body. The victim was transported to the hospital in critical condition but is now stable. According to police, the victim was walking southbound on Locust Avenue when he was approached by a male suspect, attempted to flee on foot, and was then shot and pistol-whipped. The suspects then fled on foot.

  • The shooting occurred on February 22, 2026 around 12:49 pm.
  • The 14-year-old suspect was arrested on February 23, 2026 in Lakewood.

The players

14-year-old male resident of Long Beach

The primary suspect arrested in the shooting of the 14-year-old victim.

Jian Xavier Salas

A 19-year-old Long Beach resident who was arrested for his alleged involvement in the shooting, booked for attempted murder and accessory after the fact, with his bail set at $75,000.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on the 14-year-old suspect's bail status at a future court hearing.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of gun violence involving minors in some communities, and the importance of law enforcement efforts to investigate and apprehend those responsible, while also addressing the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to such incidents.