A neighborhood in northern Hillsborough experiencing an uptick of shootings at parties is set to have a heavier police presence this weekend.

The Hillsborough Police Department shared a release Friday saying it would have officers out on Riddle Avenue on Saturday July 8 and Sunday July 9 to try and learn more about the recent incidents — and to identify suspects.

The release detailed three instances of gunfire and injuries at block parties in the neighborhood, which is off U.S. 70 and near Fairview Park. The first was on June 3, which injured a 17-year-old and led to an 18-year-old Mebane resident’s arrest. Hillsborough Police said there was another during early morning hours on June 24, which injured a 33-year-old and led to the arrest of a Durham man.

The latest shooting happened following the Fourth of July holiday, as two people at a block party were hospitalized with gunshot wounds during the early hours of July 5. Police are still seeking a suspect in that case, according to Friday’s release. Investigators also referenced a May 5 armed home invasion reported on Torain Street, which is close to Riddle Avenue, as another incident it is seeking information on.

As a result, Hillsborough Police said it will be setting up informational checkpoints through the weekend in the neighborhood. The department described them as “non-enforcement checkpoints,” where the goal is to provide information to drivers, pass out flyers, and hear what community members have to say.

“We need as many of our community partners to provide information as possible,” said Major Andy Simmons in Friday’s release. “The Hillsborough Police Department prides itself on partnering with our citizens, and this is a time that this relationship needs to bear fruit. A small percentage of people are causing this problem, and the rest of the community should not have to suffer because of it.”

The message provided ways for community members to get into contact with Hillsborough Police’s investigators for each of the incidents. Additionally, the department can also be direct-messaged through its Facebook page. Anonymous crime tips can also be reported by calling 919-296-9555 or using the See it, Say it, Send it app and website.

 

Photo via the Hillsborough Police Department.


Chapelboro.com does not charge subscription fees, and you can directly support our efforts in local journalism here. Want more of what you see on Chapelboro? Let us bring free local news and community information to you by signing up for our biweekly newsletter.