Teen Gang Member Fired On Wal-Mart Shooting Victim Over Mistaken Identity: Cops

PALATINE, IL — A 17-year-old boy was arrested and charged as an adult Wednesday after being accused of shooting a 19-year-old man found bleeding outside of Wal-Mart last week in what investigators are calling a case of mistaken identity, according to Palatine police.

Giovanny Unzueta — of the 1200 block of East Inverrary Lane and an alleged gang member, police say — was charged with attempted first-degree murder and felony aggravated battery with a firearm.

On Feb. 7, police responded to a 911 call of gunfire at Wal-Mart, 1555 N. Rand Road. When officers reached the scene, they found the victim bleeding but conscious in the parking lot after being shot in the face by a handgun, police said. The victim was taken to Lutheran General Hospital, where he had surgery. He has since been released, according to police.

RELATED: Shooting Victim Found at Palatine Wal-Mart When Police Investigate Gunfire Report

After examining video evidence and taking witness accounts, investigators determined Unzueta pulled the trigger on the weapon used in the shooting, police said. The victim is not affiliated with any gangs, and while no details have been given, police are blaming mistaken identity for the shooting.

Late last week, police recovered a vehicle they said was involved in the shooting. No details were given about where the vehicle was found or what led investigators to connect it with the shooting.

RELATED: Vehicle Found, But No One Charged Yet In Shooting Outside Palatine Wal-Mart

The case is still being investigating and anyone with additional information should call the police at 847-359-9000 or Palatine-Inverness Crime Stoppers at 847-590-7867.

Giovanny Unzueta, 17 (photo via Palatine Police Department)

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