Police want info on pair of shootings

Aurora police are looking for witnesses in two shootings this week that left two men injured, one seriously.

Police are investigating the shootings as gang-related, though neither man had any apparent gang ties.

The latest occurred at 1:35 a.m. Friday on the city's near-east side around Fifth Avenue and Union Street.

An 18-year-old Aurora man was driving on Fifth Avenue when a dark -- possibly purple or green -- Dodge Neon pulled alongside his car, police said.

Someone inside fired shots, and the man was hit once in the arm. He was treated at an Aurora hospital and released.

The man's companion, a 21-year-old Aurora man, wasn't injured, police said.

Three people were in the Neon, at least two of whom were men.

The other shooting happened about 1:30 a.m. New Year's Day, also on the city's near-east side around Fourth Avenue and Watson Street.

A 22-year-old Aurora man was walking to a friend's house when he was beaten by several males in the area of Downer Place and Anderson Street, police said.

The man escaped and ran, but the group chased him both on foot and in at least one car, authorities said.

The group then fired several shots, one of which hit him in the leg. His injuries are not life-threatening, police said, but he continues to be treated an Aurora hospital.

Police say a dark -- possibly green -- SUV and a red Chevrolet Cavalier might have been involved.

The two shootings appear to be unrelated, police spokesman Dan Ferrelli said.

Authorities want anyone with information on either shooting to call (630) 801-6655 or Crime Stoppers at (630) 892-1000.

Callers to Crime Stoppers may remain anonymous and can qualify for a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest.