MERCED COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – A 24-year-old man was hospitalized after a shooting in Merced County Friday, the county sheriff’s office said.

The sheriff’s office said that deputies responded to the 300 block of E. Childs Avenue at around 8:40 a.m.

When deputies arrived, they found the 24-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. He was transported to a local hospital and is listed in serious but stable condition.

Deputies said the shooting stemmed from a verbal argument that escalated into a physical altercation, which resulted in him being shot.

The sheriff’s office said they are currently looking for the suspect, who is approximately 24 to 40 years old, and is anywhere between 5 feet and 8 inches tall to 6 feet. The suspect weighs approximately 200 pounds. Deputies said that the suspect may have been wearing a gray or green sweater with blue or black jeans.

There is no ongoing threat to the public, but deputies urge anyone who sees an individual who matches that description not to approach and to call 911.

Anyone with any information about the shooting is asked to contact the Merced County Sheriff’s Office at 209-385-7445.