STOCKTON, CA – District Attorney Tori Verber Salazar announced that defendant Michael Hayes was arraigned on attempted murder as well as assault with a firearm with weapons and hate crime enhancements.
“The terrible actions of one is not a representation of who we are as a community. No one should be victimized because of their race, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation,” said District Attorney Tori Verber Salazar. “My office takes these crimes very seriously. It is our goal, in collaboration with our law enforcement partners, to rid the community of hate and unnecessary gun violence.”
“Senseless acts of gun violence and hate crimes are not tolerated in our community,” said Stockton Police Chief Eric Jones. “I want to thank the public for their anonymous tips and the hard work of our detectives for making a quick arrest. I also hope for a speedy recovery for Mr. Gayle.”
According to the Stockton Police Department, the defendant Michael Hayes was driving erratically and speeding through the Cluckin’ Rooster parking lot on Pacific Avenue when the victim, Bobby Gayle, told the driver to slow down. The defendant then stopped, exited the vehicle, used racial epithets, and shot the victim seven times. The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office has assigned a Victim-Witness Advocate to the victim and his family as they heal from this traumatic incident. The Office would also like to recognize the Stockton Police Department for their swift action and dedication to seeking justice for the victim.
The defendant returns to court on October 28, 2021 before the Honorable Judge Northup for further arraignment and has been remanded in custody.