On January 1, 2026, at approximately 6:37 p.m., officers responded to the 100 block of East Bunny regarding a reported fight and possible shooting.
Upon arrival, officers contacted the reporting party, who stated they observed two individuals fighting and later heard the sound of breaking glass followed by gunshots. While canvassing the area, officers located two shattered windows at an apartment in the 100 block of East Bunny.
After making multiple attempts to contact the occupants of the apartment, officers heard children crying inside and subsequently forced entry to ensure their safety. A protective sweep of the residence was conducted, and no immediate victims were located.
During the investigation, officers located multiple spent shell casings and live ammunition inside the residence. A .22-caliber firearm was also recovered.
As a result of the investigation, Margarito Martinez de la Cruz, a 31-year-old Santa Maria resident, was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and discharging a firearm in an inhabited dwelling. He was booked into the Santa Maria Northern Branch Jail on multiple weapons-related charges.
At this time, there is no ongoing threat to the public, and no outstanding suspects.
Authored by: Todd Logan, Lieutenant
Santa Maria Police Department
1111 W Betteravia Rd.,
Santa Maria, Ca. 93455
(805) 928-3781 ext 2277
