Angel Domingo Gaspar Gallegos, a 12-year-old boy from San Diego, California, tragically lost his life on November 25, 2021. Angel was struck by a stray bullet while playing in the backyard of his family's home in the Skyline neighborhood during a Thanksgiving celebration. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m., turning a festive evening into a heartbreaking tragedy. Angel was a student at Parkway Middle School and was outside with about ten of his cousins when the bullet hit him in the back.
Despite immediate efforts by family members to save him, Angel succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation into Angel's death has been ongoing, with no arrests or suspects identified as of yet. The San Diego County District Attorney, Summer Stephan, along with local community groups, has been actively involved in canvassing the neighborhood to gather leads. The community has shown significant support for Angel's family, with memorials and vigils held in his honor. Despite these efforts, the case remains unsolved, and the family continues to seek justice for Angel.
In the aftermath of the shooting, various community organizations, including Mothers With a Message, have been working tirelessly to find any information that could lead to the identification of the shooter. The family has expressed their deep grief and frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation. They have made public pleas for anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the impact Angel's death has had on his young siblings and cousins, who have lost a part of their innocence due to this tragic event.
The San Diego Police Department has been investigating whether the bullet was fired intentionally or accidentally, but no definitive conclusions have been reached. The case has highlighted the broader issue of gun violence in the community, prompting calls for increased efforts to prevent such tragedies in the future. Angel's family continues to honor his memory, with Thanksgiving now serving as a day of remembrance for the young boy who loved road trips and brought joy to those around him. The search for answers and justice for Angel Domingo Gaspar Gallegos remains a priority for both his family and the community.