Fight between two neighbors evacuates apartment complex in Porterville

PORTERVILLE, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – A Porterville apartment complex had to be evacuated after a fight broke out between two neighbors Wednesday afternoon.

The argument broke out around 3:30 p.m. at an apartment complex in the 500 Block of North Sunnyside Street.

Police say two neighbors had been arguing when one of them, identified as 58-year-old Samuel Nicasio Martinez, took out a pellet gun.

According to officers, Martinez then shot his neighbor, leaving him with multiple puncture wounds to his face, as well as heavy bleeding from a large laceration to his arm. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

By the time officers arrived, Martinez had locked himself inside his apartment and continued to display “irate and erratic” behavior.

During telephone conversations with the Crisis Response Team, police say Martinez made threats to harm or kill officers. After numerous attempts to get him to surrender, SWAT was summoned.

Martinez finally exited his apartment after SWAT injected chemical agents.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact the Porterville Police Department at (559) 782-7400 or through their departmental Facebook or Instagram page. Those who have information may also provide it anonymously.