In the late afternoon of September 18, 2017, a tragedy unfolded at a Boost Mobile store in south Kansas City that cut short the life of a beloved 30-year-old man. Alejandro Ernesto Castillo, known to his friends and family as Alex, was nearing the end of his shift when an armed man entered the store located at 6823 Longview Road in an alleged robbery attempt.
Born in El Salvador on March 19, 1987, Castillo was a man described as humble and loving, with an amazing heart.
He had been raised in Riverside, California, and was cherished by his mother, Ana Castillo, and a large, spirited family. His interests were varied, from competitive games like the card game Magic and League of Legends to sports, reading, and monthly trips to the movies. He was a man who found joy in many things and was deeply loved in return.
As Castillo was leaving work for the day, he noticed a male suspect confronting a female employee. Without hesitation, he went back inside to intervene and protect his coworker. A struggle ensued, and in a senseless act of violence, the suspect shot Castillo. He succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The suspect fled the area on foot, and despite police efforts, including plans to review surveillance footage, no immediate arrests were made in connection with the fatal shooting.
The community was left to mourn the loss of a man who died a hero, trying to help another. His family and friends were left with the immense pain of his absence, remembering a life filled with kindness and a competitive spirit. Funeral services were held on September 23, 2017, where those who knew and loved him gathered to say their final goodbyes. The investigation into his death was ongoing, with authorities appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the apprehension of the person responsible for this tragic loss.
