Two Coachella Valley Teens Arrested in Mecca Shooting Death of 17-Year-Old Girl

Two Coachella Valley residents have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old girl in Mecca.

Authorities say 18-year-old Christopher Balderrama of Thermal and a 17-year-old boy have both been booked on suspicion of murder.

The shooting happened in March of last year on Avenue 66 in Mecca, where the teenage victim was killed. Due to her age, her identity has not been released.

Investigators say the arrests come after an extensive investigation, though officials have not yet shared details about what led up to the shooting or a possible motive.

The case has drawn attention across the eastern Coachella Valley, as community members continue to seek answers nearly a year after the deadly incident.

Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing and additional information may be released as it becomes available.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.