UPDATE: Man Shot In South Las Cruces Recovering, In Stable Condition

A police investigation continued Wednesday into the shooting of a South Las Cruces man, a story ABC-7 covered as breaking news Tuesday night.

Neighbors told ABC-7?s New Mexico Mobile Newsroom the victim?s name is ?Matthew.? Police did not confirm the victim?s name Wednesday, but a hospital spokesman told ABC-7, ?Matthew Juarez? is in stable condition at University Medical Center after being shot twice.

Residents did not want to be identified, but said the shooting was much too close for comfort.

?All of a sudden you just hear five or six repeated shots,? a neighbor, who recalled the commotion, said. ?It just makes you think, what if they were coming in here.”

A neighbor startled by loud gunshots said that was the last sound he ever expected to hear outside his door.

“Sirens over there, over there, and then all of sudden you just see ?em from all over the place,? the neighbor, who described the crime scene along his street, said.

The 1600-block of south Espina Street became a crime scene Tuesday night just before 8 p.m., after police said a 39-year-old man suffered two gunshot wounds to his chest.

Other than heavy traffic along Espina, the area is typically quiet, neighbors said. But for some, that comforting feel, is gone.

“Now?not so safe,” the neighbor said.

The neighbor said he has lived in the area with his family for the past three years, but now, he plans to move out for his own peace of mind.

“When something like this happens in a neighborhood, obviously people are somewhat frightened, parents may be concerned and children scared,? Dan Trujillo, spokesperson for the Las Cruces Police Department, said. ?I don?t think that neighborhood or any particular neighborhood in Las Cruces should be threatened.?

Police have not said if the shooting was gang-related. Investigators do believe the victim was targeted, however, but have not said why.

?It?s just scary, you know, for my kids,” the neighbor said. ?Just the fear that it was right across the street; it’s crazy you never think about it.”

Police are actively pursuing leads as the investigation continues. Anyone with information is asked to call LCPD at (575) 526-0795. Or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or send a tip via text message to LCTIPS (528477).

Stay with ABC-7 for the latest as this story develops.