By Bill Lindelof
blindelof@sacbee.com
Five teens were taken into custody early this morning after shots allegedly were fired at two off-duty Sacramento County sheriff's deputies.
The search for a sixth person was called off about 6 a.m.
"We do believe we have the shooter in custody," said Sgt. Tim Curran, a sheriff's department spokesman.
About 2 a.m. the deputies were driving east on El Camino Avenue approaching Bell Street. The deputies, in plainclothes, had the green light but saw a group of six young men crossing the street.
The deputies slowed to allow the group to pass in front of them across the street. The deputies resumed travel and were 20 yards from the pedestrians when the deputy who was the passenger in the vehicle looked back.
He reported seeing muzzle flashes and hearing multiple gunshots.
The deputies, who were armed with their service weapons, reported to dispatch that they had been fired upon, Curran said.
They followed the group south on Bell Street to Pamela Lane, a dead-end street. The deputies watched the suspects hop over fences and enter back yards.
Law enforcement units responded quickly and began a search. Five suspects were found with help from Sacramento police officers and a sheriff's department dog.
Three suspects were found in nearby Santa Anita Park, including one 17-year-old suspected of firing the shots. The sixth teen was not found.
Suspects arrested and transported downtown for questioning included two 16-year-olds, two 17-year-olds and an 18-year-old. Detectives will interview the teens before deciding what charges will be filed.
The deputy's private vehicle was not struck by gunfire, Curran said. No weapon was recovered. It is unclear why the shots allegedly were fired, Curran said.
Both deputies were hired in 2005 and work at the Sacramento County Main Jail.
Call The Bee's Bill Lindelof, (916) 321-1079.
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