Pregnant Woman Gunned Down Inside Car in California

A homicide investigation has been launched after a pregnant woman was shot in a car in California.

The Turlock Police Department said they received a call of an aggravated assault in progress in the 500 block of Twentieth Century Boulevard just after 1 a.m. on August 4.

When officers arrived at the scene they found a woman, later identified as 27-year-old Amythest Rochelle Cortez of Gustine, inside a vehicle suffering life-threatening injuries as a result of gunfire.

The suspect or suspects had left the scene prior to the officers' arrival.

Local resident Scott Cooper told Fox 40 said he heard a loud on the night of the shooting.

"Just a big bang and we thought it was like fireworks. So we didn't... we just kinda ignored it," Cooper said.

Cortez was taken to a local hospital, but she and her unborn child later died.

"The next of kin have been notified and our condolences go out to the family for their loss," Turlock Police said in a statement. "Turlock Police Department Detectives are investigating this tragic incident and are actively working on leads discovered in the investigation. Due to this being an active investigation, no additional information will be provided at this time."

Cooper said "I really feel bad for the family" after hearing that the 27-year-old and the baby both died.

Police have not made public any potential motive for the shooting of the pregnant woman and are continuing to ask the public for any information.

Detailing the night of the shooting as part of their 24 hour patrol report, Turlock Police's Sgt. Mike Stapler said: "Tonight's shift was busy with a report of a shooting in the 500 block of Twentieth Century Blvd, tying up most of our officers and several swing shift officers into the early morning hours. The investigation is on-going.

"Officers also arrested one man for driving on a suspended license and another for public intoxication."

Turlock Police Detectives are asking that anyone with information to call Detective Brandon Bertram at (209) 664-7323. You can also contact the Turlock Police Department's Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 extension 6780 or email at tpdtipline@turlock.ca.us.

The Turlock Police Department is also an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Anyone with information can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.

The Turlock Police Department have been contacted for an update in the investigation.