Suspect AND Witnesses in Benton City Shooting Have Fled, Say Officials

Benton County officials now say last Friday's shooting of a woman in the back is looking very much like an accident. That coming from the victim herself. So why have the suspect and other witnesses fled?

It's likely because 24-year-old Christian Michael Hernandez and 24-year-old Francisco Morales Jr. are wanted on outstanding warrants, and Hernandez, who was the triggerman, is a convicted felon and cannot possess a firearm.

Sheriff's say after interviewing 22-year-old Maria Renee Coronado the shooting appears to be accidental. She is still in Kadlec Regional Medical center after being shot with a rifle. She was brought by a friend to the hospital. She had been found in her apartment.

Hernandez is believed to be driving a 2012 beige Chevrolet Malibu sedan. Officials say it has a temporary license plate. He's believed headed to California, possibly L.A. Morales Jr, who believed to be with him, is wanted on outstanding warrants. Hernandez is said to be armed and is considered dangerous, according to the Tri-City Herald.

With the two is said to be another person, 25-year-old Jazmin Marie Torres.