Moss Landing shooting leaves multiple dead on Central Coast

Residents of Moss Landing woke to the sound of sirens and a closed beach following a shooting that claimed multiple lives early Monday. The incident occurred along Jetty Road, forcing a temporary shutdown of the public area near the water. Authorities confirmed that the event resulted in both fatalities and injuries, disrupting the quiet start to the day for local families and visitors.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office dispatched deputies and detectives to the scene shortly after midnight. In a press release, the agency stated that multiple fatalities and casualties were confirmed. North County Fire Protection Chief Jess Cortez reported that crews discovered two individuals with gunshot wounds to the chest. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. A third person sustained minor injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment.

State Sen. John Laird addressed the event, describing it as an "unspeakable horror" that has struck the Central Coast. He noted that the shooting occurred just after midnight and expressed condolences to those affected. Laird also acknowledged a series of shooting deaths reported across the country over the preceding weekend. He thanked the Monterey County Sheriff and team for managing the situation.

The investigation remains active, with the sheriff’s office indicating that no further information would be released immediately. California State Parks Police closed Jetty Road and Moss Landing State Beach at the request of law enforcement. The agency stated there is no active threat to the Moss Landing Community at this time. The sheriff’s office could not immediately be reached for additional comment on the specific circumstances leading to the shooting.