Man Fatally Shot While Walking Dogs In Oceanside

OCEANSIDE, CA – A 16-year-old boy believed to have gang ties was under arrest in a hospital Wednesday on suspicion of gunning down a man during an argument at a North County park, and shooting himself in the process.

The teen confronted Martin Swan, 49, as he was walking his dogs with his roommate at Melba Bishop Park in Oceanside shortly before 10 p.m. Tuesday, according to police.

During an ensuing quarrel, the youth allegedly pulled a gun and opened fire, fatally wounding Swan and shooting himself in the leg before fleeing along with a male companion.

Swan, who lived near the park, died at the scene.

Several hours later, the alleged killer showed up at Tri-City Medical Center for treatment of his gunshot wound, police spokesman Tom Bussey said. Notified by hospital staff, officers arrived and placed the teen under arrest. His name was withheld because he is a minor.

The suspect was expected to be released from the hospital within several days. At that point, he will be booked into juvenile hall on suspicion of murder, Bussey said.

The reason for the argument between Swan and the suspect was unclear.

By City News Service / Image via Shutterstock