15-Year-Old Boy Succumbs to Injuries After Shooting: Suspect Remains at Large as Family Seeks Funds for Funeral
In a tragic incident that has left a community devastated, 15-year-old Damian Hernandez from Mount Prospect, Illinois, passed away after sustaining critical injuries from a shooting on August 17, 2023. The young boy was found with a gunshot wound to his upper body and was rushed to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital for treatment. However, despite medical efforts, Hernandez succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday, August 22.
According to authorities, a 14-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with attempted murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, aggravated discharge of a firearm, and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon in connection with the shooting. However, another individual involved in the incident, 18-year-old Jesus Pantoja, is still at large, and law enforcement agencies have issued an arrest warrant for his apprehension.
In light of this devastating loss, Hernandez’s grieving family has created a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for his funeral and related expenses. The campaign, launched on Tuesday, aims to raise $35,000, with $4,000 already collected from generous donors. In a heartfelt plea on the fundraising page, Damian’s mother, Brisa Montes, shared the challenges her family is facing and expressed gratitude for the emotional support received. As a single mother who had to take time off work to be with her son during his hospitalization, financial assistance would greatly aid the family during this difficult time.
While the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, authorities are actively seeking a second suspect, Jesus Pantoja. They have warned the public that Pantoja is considered armed and dangerous, urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the local police hotline.
This tragic incident has once again highlighted the growing concern of gun violence in the area. Neighbors, such as Jerry Lumbrerez from Hidden Creek, expressed their deep sadness and worry about the safety of their community. Lumbrerez extended his sympathies to the grieving family and emphasized the need for collective efforts to address the issue of gun violence.
In a separate incident in Chicago, another shooting took place, resulting in the death of a 25-year-old man and injuries to three others, including a 15-year-old boy. Authorities have not yet made any arrests in connection with this incident and are actively investigating the case.
As the community mourns the loss of Damian Hernandez and grapples with the aftermath of these violent incidents, it is crucial that law enforcement agencies continue their efforts to bring those responsible to justice. Furthermore, collective action and support from the community are needed to address the underlying causes of gun violence and create a safer environment for all.
