JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Investigators say a Jacksonville man was in his front yard with a family member Wednesday when a masked gunman approached them from the backyard and opened fire. 

According to Sergeant Johnson with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Robbery and Violent Crimes Unit, officers were called to the 5600 block of Vernon Road shortly after 5:30 p.m. for reports of gunfire.

When they arrived, they found a man in his early 30s in the front yard suffering from gunshot wounds to the elbow and hip. He was rushed to the hospital by Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department and is now in stable condition after undergoing surgery.

Police believe the suspect jumped a fence to gain access to the yard and then fled the scene on foot. It’s unclear whether the gunman got into a vehicle afterward.

JSO said only one suspect was involved, but a clear motive has not been established. Shell casings were recovered from the scene, and officers are reviewing surveillance footage in the area. No other homes were struck by gunfire.

Authorities say the investigation is still in its early stages, and they do not believe this shooting is related to another incident reported earlier in the day.

Anyone with information is urged to contact JSO at (904) 630-0500 or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS. Tips can also be emailed to JSO at JSOCrimeTips@jaxsheriff.org.