Diego Morales Perez, a 16-year-old Hispanic male, tragically lost his life on December 14, 2018, in Jacksonville, Florida. Diego was fatally wounded in a double shooting that occurred at the Baymeadows Apartments. According to reports, Diego was in a car with another man when two individuals approached their vehicle and opened fire. Despite their injuries, they managed to drive across the street to the parking lot of Fidelity Bank to wait for help.
Unfortunately, Diego succumbed to his gunshot wounds before assistance could arrive.
The investigation into Diego's death revealed that the shooting was not a random act of violence. Shell casings and projectiles recovered from the scene were linked to a firearm that was later recovered by investigators. This evidence played a crucial role in identifying and charging a suspect in connection with the murder. In September 2019, nearly a year after the incident, a man was charged with murder for his involvement in the double shooting that claimed Diego's life.
The case of Diego Morales Perez highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence affecting young people in Jacksonville. His death was one of many that contributed to the city's high homicide rate in 2018. Despite efforts to reduce violence, the year ended with a significant number of homicides, many of which remain unsolved. Diego's family and community continue to seek justice and closure for the loss of a young life cut tragically short.
