In the early hours of a Sunday morning in Sunrise, Florida, a senseless act of violence cut short the life of 48-year-old Kendrick English, a man who had already overcome immense adversity. The incident, which occurred on April 12, 2026, unfolded outside the Five Star Banquet Hall, where a birthday party was in full swing. English, who was a quadriplegic and used a wheelchair, was attempting to enter the event when he was denied entry by a security guard.
The security guard, identified
as 26-year-old Francisco Navarro Sanchez, was responsible for ensuring only invited guests gained access to the party. A verbal altercation ensued between English and Navarro Sanchez. After the initial dispute, English left the entrance but returned a short time later to again try and enter the party. During this second confrontation, after English reportedly used a profanity, Navarro Sanchez drew a handgun and fired multiple shots at him. English was struck by several bullets and was rushed to a local hospital where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
Following the shooting, Francisco Navarro Sanchez fled the scene but was later contacted by detectives and agreed to return, where he was taken into custody. He has since been charged with second-degree murder. During his initial court appearance, a judge ordered him to be held without bond.
The death of Kendrick English sent shockwaves through the community, particularly because of the life he had led. In 1995, as a promising football player at Stranahan High School, English sustained a paralyzing injury on the field that left him a quadriplegic. Despite this life-altering event, he was remembered by friends as a humble and joyful person who loved his community and never allowed his circumstances to define him. His death is a tragic end to a life marked by resilience and perseverance.
