TULARE COUNTY, Calif. — Authorities have identified the teenager who was shot and killed over the weekend in Tulare County as Marcus Mendoza, 19, according to the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office. The death has sparked an active investigation as deputies work to determine exactly how the shooting occurred and why the circumstances surrounding it remain unclear.

Sheriff’s officials said deputies were called to Kaweah Health Medical Center in Visalia on Sunday after a person arrived at the hospital suffering from a gunshot wound. Investigators later confirmed that the victim was Mendoza, who ultimately died at the hospital despite medical efforts to save his life. Authorities initially did not release the victim’s identity while notifying family members.

During the investigation, deputies learned that 37-year-old Joseph Morales had dropped Mendoza off at the hospital. Morales has since been named a person of interest in the case. Officials said Morales and Mendoza were friends, and early findings suggest the shooting may have been accidental, though investigators stressed that the case is still under review.

According to the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, Morales has not cooperated with investigators. Deputies said he became combative during interactions with law enforcement, which complicated the investigation into the shooting. Authorities have not said what Morales told deputies about the events leading up to Mendoza’s injury.

While Morales has not been charged in connection with Mendoza’s death, he was arrested on several unrelated charges, including vandalism, assault on a law enforcement officer, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, ammunition, and a controlled substance. Investigators said those charges stem from Morales’ behavior and evidence discovered during the investigation.

Deputies continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including where it happened and how the firearm was discharged. Authorities have not released details about the weapon involved or the location of the shooting. The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active and that additional charges could be considered depending on the final findings. As family and friends mourn the loss of a young life, deputies are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward as they work to bring clarity to what led to Mendoza’s death.