Police find body in Santa Clara house fire following fatal neighborhood shooting

Police investigating targeted attack in Santa Clara

Neighbors identified the shooting victim as a well-known resident who lived with his wife and daughter.

SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Police are investigating a fatality in a quiet South Bay neighborhood after a man was shot to death and a body was discovered inside a burning home nearby.

The first report

What we know:

The investigation began Friday afternoon in the 600 block of Enright Avenue. 

Santa Clara police officials said a man was found shot in front of a residence and died at the scene. 

Shortly after the shooting, a fire broke out at a house located on the same street.

On Saturday, authorities provided a grim update, confirming that investigators located a body in the rear of the charred remains of the home.

Police characterized the incident as a targeted attack and stated there is no ongoing threat to the public, though they have not yet confirmed if they are actively seeking a suspect.

Community impact

Local perspective:

The violence has shaken long-time residents of the area. 

One neighbor, who requested anonymity, captured the sound of the gunfire on a doorbell camera.

"I heard this live," the neighbor said. "I was like, 'Oh my God. That was gunshots for sure.'"

Neighbors described the shooting victim as a devoted family man who lived in the neighborhood with his wife and daughter. 

Many recalled seeing the couple walking their dog daily and described the daughter as a Girl Scout who sold cookies to the residents.

"I am just so sorry for the family, so sad," one neighbor said. "Such a nice family."

The investigation continues

What we don't know:

Attention has also turned to the home where the fire occurred. 

Several residents told investigators they believed the property was being used as a short-term rental, noting a high volume of foot traffic and unfamiliar vehicles at the address.

"The neighborhood kind of suspects something going on in that house," another resident said. "A lot of weird activity... a lot of people coming and going."

Police have not yet released the identities of the victims. It's also unclear if authorities are still looking for a suspect.