Javier Luna Guatemala, a 36-year-old Hispanic male, tragically passed away on November 20, 2022, in Portsmouth, Ohio. He was born in Ayotzintepec, OAX, Mexico, and was known for his love of soccer, music, and cooking. Javier worked as a cook at Toro Loco Mexican Restaurant in Portsmouth. His sudden death was a result of a shooting incident that occurred outside Frank & Steins Lounge in Portsmouth.
The incident took place early in the morning, around 2:30 a.m., when Javier and another
man, Abraham Pucheta, were found with gunshot wounds. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene. The Portsmouth Police Department identified Anthony Lee Kearns as the suspect connected to the shooting. Kearns was apprehended by law enforcement in Jackson County, Ohio, on December 23, 2022, and charged with the murder of both Javier Luna Guatemala and Abraham Pucheta.
The investigation into the shooting revealed that the victims were employees at Toro Loco Mexican Restaurant, and the incident has raised concerns among local residents about the rise in violent crimes in the area. The Portsmouth Police Department continues to work on the case, with assistance from other law enforcement agencies.
Javier Luna Guatemala is remembered fondly by his family, friends, and the community. He is survived by his parents, Ernesto Luna Mendoza and Emilia Guatemala Marin, four sisters, and nine brothers. His funeral was held at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Portsmouth, and donations were made to FC Daehler Mortuary for his final return to Mexico.
The tragic loss of Javier Luna Guatemala has left a significant impact on those who knew him, and the community continues to seek justice for his untimely death.
