A heated argument over a vehicle purchase escalated into gunfire on March 10, 2024, in the 300 Block of Sooner Lane, prompting a swift response from Northern Berks Police Department officers.
Responding to a call of disorderly conduct at approximately 12:45 PM, officers arrived to find a scene of tension. According to a police report, the altercation between two individuals quickly turned violent when one of them fired a handgun during the dispute.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the investigation revealed that a bullet, discharged during the altercation, was found in the wall of a nearby home, that had been occupied at the time of the incident.
Subsequent investigation led to the identification of Franklin Batista-Diaz as the alleged perpetrator. Charges have been filed against Batista-Diaz, including carrying firearms without a license, discharging a firearm into an occupied structure, recklessly endangering another person, and criminal mischief.
Authorities stress that while charges have been filed, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
As the investigation continues, authorities said there will be no further comment at this time regarding this investigation.
