Daniel Earl Dexter, a 22-year-old from Adelanto, California, tragically lost his life on June 1, 2022, in a shooting incident at Alec Fergusson Park in Rialto. The incident occurred around 12:58 PM when an argument between two groups of basketball players escalated into a gunfight. Dexter, who was a former standout athlete at Silverado High School, was one of two individuals shot during the altercation.
Despite being transported to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton for treatment, Dexter was pronounced dead at 1:49 PM. The other victim remained in critical condition.
The shooting took place while nearly 100 first and second-grade students from Fitzgerald Elementary School were on a field trip at the park. Fortunately, none of the students or school staff were injured, as they were quickly sheltered under tables and behind areas of concealment by teachers and campus security guards. The Rialto Unified School District confirmed that the violence was not connected to any of the district's schools.
The investigation into Dexter's death was led by the Rialto Police Department's Homicide Unit. Witnesses described the suspect as a Black male adult with a dark complexion. Despite initial detainment of one individual at the scene, officers confirmed that he was not a suspect and released him. The police have continued to follow up on investigative leads, but as of the latest updates, no arrests have been made, and at least one shooter remains at large. The incident is believed to be isolated, with no ongoing threat to the community.
Dexter's death has left a profound impact on his friends, family, and former teammates. He was remembered as a kind-hearted individual who made significant contributions both on and off the football field. His best friend, Trevon Clark, who recently signed with the Baltimore Ravens, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Dexter's role as the godfather to his children and his unwavering support throughout their friendship.
The Rialto Police Department has urged anyone with information related to the investigation to come forward, offering anonymous reporting options through WeTip. The community continues to mourn the loss of a promising young man whose life was cut short by senseless violence.
