Damien Amzy Gonzalez, a 17-year-old Latino male from Charlotte, NC, tragically lost his life on November 15, 2022. Damien was born on April 4, 2005, in Cabarrus County to Martiniano and Elizabeth Gonzalez. He was a young father, leaving behind his 5-month-old son, Amir Gonzalez, and his life partner, Amiya Leak. Damien had a passion for riding dirt bikes, playing soccer, and spending time with his family, especially his son and best friend, Dominic Salazar.
On the evening of November 15,
2022, Damien and his brother, Dominic Salazar, were involved in a shooting incident at Fred Alexander Park on Griers Grove Road in West Charlotte. The shooting occurred near a playground and tennis courts around 7:30 p.m. in the rain. Damien was pronounced dead at the scene, while Dominic was rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, Dominic succumbed to his injuries on December 4, 2022.
The investigation into the double homicide led to the arrest of two juveniles on November 28, 2022. They were initially charged with murder, and the charges were later upgraded to double murder following Dominic's death. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and the investigation is ongoing. Damien's death has left a void in the lives of his family and friends, who remember him as a loving father and a devoted family member.
