A tragic shooting unfolded on the afternoon of Wednesday February 25, 2026 at Applegate Park located at 1045 West 25th Street near the intersection of 25th and P Streets in downtown Merced, California. Merced Police Department officers responded around 2:45 p.m. to reports of gunfire at the park transforming the normally peaceful gathering spot into an active crime scene as families scrambled for safety amid the chaos.
An argument broke out among several people in the park prompting the situation to escalate rapidly into gunfire. Officers arrived within minutes and located 23-year-old Kashawn Bradley suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
First responders provided immediate aid at the scene before rushing him to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries despite life saving efforts. The swift police response helped secure the area quickly while emergency medical teams worked to stabilize the victim in full view of the downtown neighborhood.
Kashawn Bradley known affectionately as Kraz was remembered by those closest to him as a loving son a caring brother a loyal friend a doting husband and a devoted father of two. His bright smile could light up any room and his kind heart warmed everyone he met with joy that proved contagious even through life’s challenges. Deeply rooted in his faith Kashawn found meaning and resilience in community and family holding onto gratitude and hope as guiding principles in his daily life in Merced.
Bradley lived every day centered on his wife Janiya Neely and their two young children making them the driving force behind his choices and actions. He balanced responsibilities with unwavering support creating moments of laughter and togetherness that defined his role as a husband and father in the Merced community. His determination to provide stability and love left a profound impact on his immediate family who now face the unimaginable task of moving forward without his steady presence.
The Merced community has rallied around the Bradley family with an outpouring of tributes highlighting Kashawn’s positive spirit and commitment to those he loved. A GoFundMe organized by his wife Janiya Neely has been established to honor his loving legacy and assist with funeral expenses while providing support for the children in the difficult months ahead.
Merced Police Department detectives continue their active investigation into the February 25 shooting at Applegate Park with an 18-year-old suspect identified as Ryan Santos arrested the following day in connection with the homicide. The case remains ongoing as authorities review witness statements surveillance footage and evidence from the 1045 West 25th Street location emphasizing that the incident appears isolated with no ongoing threat to the public.
