Valley Springs, CA…On June 8 (Saturday), 2024, at about 9:30 PM, a deputy was patrolling the area near the crowded Moccasin campgrounds, Lake Camanche South Shore, when he heard a gunshot. As he was going to investigate, multiple 911 calls flooded the Calaveras County Dispatch Center, reporting an incident at space 147. Upon arrival in the area, the deputy contacted a victim who stated he was in a verbal argument with suspect Ismael Viveros, age 28, over a minor vehicle accident. During the argument, suspect Viveros produced a handgun and pointed it in the direction of the victim. Suspect Viveros told the victim he was going to “kill him” and fired one round toward the victim and other campers in the area. The victim and other campers ran for cover while the suspect left the immediate area.

Due to the large search area, deputies from Amador County and California Highway Patrol Officers were requested to respond to assist with locating the suspect and help with the investigation. Suspect Viveros was located in a vehicle near the front gate, attempting to leave. He was arrested without incident and transported to the Calaveras County Jail, where he was booked for attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, felony criminal threats, and felony participation in a criminal street gang. Due to the severity of suspect Viveros’ actions and his connection to a street gang, the deputy applied for and was granted a “no bail” enhancement.

The Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office has a contract with the East Bay Municipal Utilities District to provide law enforcement services on their property. One deputy is assigned year-round, and another is assigned during the spring and summer months to help with the large number of people who come to enjoy outdoor activities. Thankfully, one of the deputies was on duty and in the area when this incident occurred.