YORBA LINDA, CA — Three Hospitalized After Shooting at Featherly Regional Park; Suspect Tied to Prior Violence Identified as Ezekiel Kelly
The serene surroundings of Featherly Regional Park in Yorba Linda were suddenly disrupted Sunday afternoon after a shocking shooting incident left three people hospitalized, sending ripples of fear and confusion through the community. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD), the shooting occurred around 3 p.m., sparking a swift and coordinated emergency response that has since evolved into an active and ongoing investigation.
Law enforcement sources have now confirmed that Ezekiel Kelly, a suspect with a known history of violence, is being investigated in connection with the shooting. Kelly previously made headlines for his alleged involvement in a deadly spree shooting in Memphis, Tennessee, in 2022. While details surrounding his connection to the Yorba Linda incident are still emerging, authorities have not ruled out the possibility that Kelly may have been present or somehow tied to the events that unfolded on Sunday.
A Chaotic Afternoon in a Family Park
Featherly Regional Park, a tranquil haven on the border of Orange and Riverside counties, is typically a weekend destination for families, RV campers, and outdoor enthusiasts. That peaceful norm was shattered when multiple gunshots rang out near a picnic area in the park, causing panic among visitors.
When deputies arrived on scene within minutes of the 911 call, they discovered three people with gunshot wounds. All were promptly transported to local hospitals, though their current conditions have not yet been disclosed. It remains unclear whether the victims were targeted or were innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire.
Law Enforcement Responds
OCSD spokesperson Sgt. Gerard McCan addressed the media shortly after the shooting, stating that there is no current threat to the public, but confirming that the investigation remains “highly active and complex.”
“We urge the public to avoid Featherly Regional Park while our deputies continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses,” McCan said. “We understand how unsettling this is for the community and we are committed to uncovering the full truth.”
Multiple units, including the department’s Gang Enforcement and Major Crimes divisions, were reportedly dispatched to the scene to assist in the investigation. A temporary perimeter was established, and parts of the park were closed to the public for several hours.
Suspect Background Raises Questions
Though OCSD has not officially confirmed Ezekiel Kelly’s role in the incident, law enforcement sources say the suspect’s presence in California and recent social media activity are under review. Kelly gained national attention in 2022 after allegedly live-streaming a series of shootings in Memphis, killing several people and terrorizing the public for hours before his arrest.
His possible involvement in the Yorba Linda shooting has raised significant questions about his presence in the state and whether he acted alone or in coordination with others. Federal authorities, including the FBI and U.S. Marshals, are reportedly assisting with the investigation due to Kelly’s past record and the potential for interstate implications.
Community Reaction
Residents and parkgoers expressed deep concern and shock over the violent event. “It’s heartbreaking and scary. This is supposed to be a safe place for families,” said one woman who was visiting the park with her children and declined to be identified. “It makes you question how safe we really are, even in broad daylight.”
As of Monday morning, a small memorial with candles and flowers had begun forming at the entrance of the park, with community members offering prayers for the injured.
Call for Witnesses and Information
Authorities are calling on the public for help as they work to piece together what led to the violence. Anyone who was present in the park around 3 p.m. Sunday or who may have video footage is urged to contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at (714) 647-7000 or submit tips anonymously through OC Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.
As the investigation into this shocking and complex case unfolds, residents of Yorba Linda are left waiting for answers, hoping for the recovery of those injured, and bracing for more information on how a known violent offender may have found his way into their community.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.