Alleged parking lot shooter outside Fresno nightclub facing five charges, police says
The alleged parking lot shooter outside Switch Nightclub & Lounge early Sunday morning was booked into jail.
Ian McDonough, 26, was booked into Fresno County jail on Sunday and charged with attempted murder (first and second degree), loaded firearm in public (person or vehicle), carrying a concealed firearm upon a person, committing a felony while armed and assault with a firearm.
An officer conducted a traffic stop nearby the club and heard a disturbance in the parking lot outside the club before shots were fired. A witness pointed out a suspect who was running eastbound from the location. Officers chased after the suspect and contacted him hiding near a McDonald’s dumpster.
In an update Monday, police said McDonough allegedly fired at security guards and patrons.
During the argument, McDonough pulled out a handgun and began firing at the victim. Police said McDonough continued to fire as he fled from the scene. An armed security guard from the Switch Nightclub returned fire, striking McDonough in the leg.
A victim showed up at the hospital in a vehicle 30 minutes later and was struck in the upper body, police said.
Both wounds were considered non-life threatening, police said.
Detectives recovered the handgun that McDonough used as well as clothing that he removed as he fled, police said.
Switch Nightclub owner Alex Vartabedian released a statement following the shooting saying “our security team responded promptly” after shots were fired.
“On the evening of Saturday March 29th, an argument between two individuals escalated, resulting in one person discharging a firearm in the parking lot. Importantly, neither individual entered our establishment. We maintain a stringent search policy, strict dress code & high expectations for appropriate behavior. Our security team responded promptly to ensure the safety of all attendees, even engaging the suspect to protect our guests. We are grateful for our extensive security team which is all trained to handle crisis situations. Additionally, we have a partnership with the Fresno Police Department, for their services, however, due to a staffing shortage they were unable to be stationed at the event as we typically do as part of our contract.
“We are thankful for their response to the situation & will continue to work closely with the Fresno Police Department to ensure the safety of our community. Our goal will always be to provide safe, fun events for the city of Fresno.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 559-621-7000.
