Struggle between motorcycle gangs rattles New Mexico capital

SANTA FE, N.M. — A driveby shooting and a hospital lockdown prompted police in tourist-friendly Santa Fe, New Mexico, to increase patrols and surveillance amid a turf war between motorcycle gangs based in Texas and California, authorities said Wednesday.

The measures were ordered after a member of the Vagos Motorcycle Club was shot and wounded while the home of a Bandidos Motorcycle Club member was being riddled with bullets in a drive-by attack, police spokesman Greg Gurule said.

The situation has some residents on edge in the capitol of New Mexico, known for its tranquil historic plaza, art galleries and festivals. ``We want to make sure residents (and visitors) feel safe,’’ Gurule said. ``We are not going to put up with this.’’

Authorities say the violence came Saturday night amid an ongoing tuft war between the Californiabased Vagos and the Texas-founded Bandidos. A criminal complaint says David Andrew Cordova, 54, and his son David Ray Cordova, 29, fired more than 20 rounds at the home from a pickup truck.