Authorities have launched a homicide investigation following a deadly shooting that occurred early Wednesday morning, July 23, at a residence in Needles. The San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office has identified the man fatally shot as William Garhartt, a 52-year-old resident of Needles.
According to Sheriff’s spokeswoman Gloria Orejel, deputies were dispatched to the 1900 block of Erin Drive at approximately 6:41 a.m. in response to a report of an assault with a weapon. When they arrived, they found four individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.
William Garhartt was pronounced dead at the scene, while the three other victims were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Their names and current conditions have not yet been released.
Orejel confirmed that the shooting took place at the home of a friend of the victim. While dispatch logs indicated that an arrest may have been made at the scene, officials have not released any information about a suspect or the circumstances that led to the shooting. The motive remains unknown, and no weapons or further suspect details have been disclosed.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Detail is actively investigating the incident and is urging anyone with information to come forward.
Those with tips are encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Special Investigation Division at (909) 890-4904. Anonymous information can also be submitted through the We-Tip Hotline at (800) 782-7463
As the investigation continues, friends and family mourn the loss of William Garhartt, remembering him as a man whose life was taken far too soon.
