COSTA MESA, Calif. UPDATE (Aug. 18, 2026, 3:55 p.m.) – At approximately 3:00 p.m., the Costa Mesa Police Department arrested Rodney Otis Rich, 37, Costa Mesa, and his mother, Tammie Walker, 63, Costa Mesa, in connection with the shooting earlier today in the parking lot of a grocery store at the 2100 block of Newport Blvd. The arrest occurred at Walker’s residence at the 2400 block of Newport Blvd.
At this time, we can confirm that the victim’s injuries are critical but not fatal. This shooting does not appear to be gang related. This investigation is ongoing and any other details relating to this incident will take time to investigate.
We thank the community for their patience while officers and detectives were on scene.
ORIGINAL POST (Aug. 18, 2026, 2:06 p.m.) – Today, at about 7:35 a.m., officers responded to the 2100 block of Newport Blvd. regarding a possible shooting. Officers and the Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue (CMFR) arrived and located a man, who had sustained a possible gunshot wound. He was transported to a nearby hospital.
Police, SWAT, and drones are currently in the 2400 block of Newport Blvd. in connection to the shooting. The suspect has been identified and is currently outstanding. Please stay away from the area.
Officers and detectives are actively working this investigation and no further information will be released at this time. When we have more information available, we will update the community.
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Media contact:
Roxi Fyad, Public Affairs Manager
Costa Mesa Police Department
[email protected]
