YCSO: Several injured in northern Arizona biker shootout

CHINO VALLEY, AZ - Authorities say 27 suspects have been arrested in connection with a shootout Saturday involving rival gang members that left a neighborhood in northern Arizona on lockdown and sent five people to the hospital.

Yavapai County Sheriff's Office spokesman Dwight D'Evelyn said that around 12:15 p.m. several calls were made to report shots fired near Yuma Drive and Road 3 North in Chino Valley, about 100 miles northwest of Phoenix.

D'Evelyn said rival motorcycle gangs who live near each other on Yuma Drive became involved in a confrontation just before the gun battle.

According to Kim Stam, manager of a nearby bar, the shooting occurred between members of the Hells Angels and Vagos motorcycle clubs. D'Evelyn confirmed members from both gangs were present at the shootout, where at least 50 rounds were fired.

"This has been coming for a long time," Stam said. "They want this to be their town, one of them."

Officials said at least five people were injured in the shooting and that one was air-lifted to a Valley hospital. Two others were treated at Yavapai Medical Center and another was treated and released at the scene. None of the injuries appear to be life-threatening.

Detectives are reportedly trying to locate another injured gang member who was helped away from the scene in an unknown vehicle.

D'Evelyn said following Saturday's initial investigation, 27 suspects have been arrested in connection with the shooting. Charges include attempted homicide, aggravated assault, endangerment, participation in a criminal street gang, and unlawful assembly.

YCSO was reportedly assisted by numerous law enforcement agencies including the Chino Valley Police Department, U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement, Department of Public Safety, Prescott and Prescott Valley Police Departments, and the Arizona State Gang Task Force.

Investigators remained at the scene Sunday, continuing to gather evidence. D'Evelyn said several motorcycles were also impounded.