MENDOCINO CO., 3/10/25 – A man allegedly fired a gun and accidentally shot himself in the leg near a woman and her child at a home near Ukiah over the weekend, the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office said.
Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the 3400 block of Ruddick Cunningham Road near Ukiah shortly after 4 a.m. Saturday after receiving a call about an accidental shooting.
Deputies gave medical aid to the man, identified as 31-year-old Lucio Romero-Ortiz of Ukiah. When medical crews arrived, they took over medical aid and he was taken to a hospital.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Romero-Ortiz accidentally shot himself. He allegedly shot the gun multiple times while intoxicated outside the home, only to enter the home carrying the gun. Inside the home was a woman and her 2-year-old child.
While inside, Romero-Ortiz allegedly unintentionally discharged the firearm a few feet from the woman and child. The bullet hit him in the leg.
Deputies alleged that evidence was withheld during the investigation, resulting in a warrant being issued to search the house. Deputies reportedly found controlled substances at the house during the search.
Romero-Ortiz was arrested on suspicion of child abuse, negligent discharge of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance while armed with a loaded weapon.
The case remains under investigation. The Sheriff’s Office asks that anyone with additional information call (707) 463-4086. Anonymous tips can be provided at (707) 234-2100.Â