Man in ‘extremely critical condition’ after shooting

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WJAR) — A New Bedford man is fighting for his life after being shot in the head.

As of Wednesday morning, 21-year-old Justin Ortiz was listed in "extremely critical condition," according to the Bristol County District Attorney's Office.

Authorities said Ortiz was shot Tuesday night around 11:30 at an apartment inside a triple-decker home at 51 Tallman Street.

When emergency responders arrived at the scene, they found Ortiz in the hallway of the apartment building with a gunshot wound to the head.

He was rushed to St. Luke's Hospital and then transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where he is being treated.

Neighbors said they weren't surprised to see police inside the home. Those who live in the area told NBC 10 News that it has a history of drug problems.

“This house number 51 -- this is the big problem on this street over here,” Jorge Medeiros said. This is a cartel (of) drugs. I call the police so many, many, many times. The police say they cannot do too much. Only so much you can do."

One time, Medeiros said he counted 41 people go in the house to pick up drugs.

"This is a lot," he said.

Medeiros said he doesn't let his daughters walk through that part of the neighborhood. He also said he fears for his life.

“I lock my gate because I’m scared somebody (will) maybe want to do to something to me because you never know,” he said.

Others who live nearby shared similar sentiments.

“It’s unbelievable and I’m sorry something like this happened,” Keith Pena said. “I mean, it’s happening more often, too. Especially around the holidays, that’s pretty bad.”

Police haven't said the motive of the shooting. Right now, authorities are looking for the person or people responsible.

No arrests have been made.

Contact authorities if you have any information.