Dean Joaquin Mendiola Peredo, a 21-year-old male of Guamanian ethnicity, tragically passed away on May 6, 2017, in Columbus, Ohio. He was born on December 29, 1995, in Tamuning, Guam, and was the son of Giovanna Mendiola Peredo and Dean Michael Peredo. Dean-Joaquin was employed as a Sales Representative at Scotts Tru-Green in Dublin and was an avid fan of rap music, being a member of the group "PRIM Records."
On the day of his death, Dean-Joaquin was found shot and critically injured in
an apartment on Busch Boulevard. He was immediately taken to OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The Columbus Police Department launched a homicide investigation into his death. A suspect was identified, but no charges have been filed as of yet. Detective Robert Cutshall stated that the shooting appeared to be accidental.
Dean-Joaquin's death marked the 46th homicide of the year in Columbus, Ohio. His passing was deeply felt by his family, friends, and the community. He is survived by his fiancée Marrissa Knox, five siblings, and numerous other relatives. Funeral services were held on May 11, 2017, at Cromes-Edwards Funeral Home in Sidney, Ohio.
The investigation into Dean-Joaquin's death continues, and the family has been seeking justice for their beloved son and brother. The case remains a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of violence on families and communities.