In the early hours of a Sunday morning in Sunrise, Florida, the life of 48-year-old Kendrick English was tragically cut short. The Black man, who had overcome immense adversity in his life, was fatally shot on April 12, 2026, outside the Five Stars Banquet Hall. English, who had been a quadriplegic and used a wheelchair since a high school football injury in 1995, was attempting to enter a birthday party at the venue.
An argument ensued when a security guard, identified as 26-year-old
Francisco Navarro Sanchez, denied English entry to the event. According to police reports, English left after the initial confrontation but returned a short time later and attempted to enter again. A second verbal altercation occurred, during which Sanchez allegedly drew a handgun and fired multiple shots at English, striking him several times. First responders transported English to a local hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries.
Following the shooting, Sanchez reportedly fled the scene but was later contacted by detectives and agreed to return, where he was taken into custody without incident. He has since been charged with murder and is being held in the Broward County Main Jail without bond. The case is now set to proceed through the judicial system.
The news of Kendrick English's death sent shockwaves through the community, with friends and family remembering him as a joyful and humble soul who inspired many with his resilience and positive outlook on life despite his physical challenges. A candlelight vigil was held in his honor at a park in Fort Lauderdale, where a large crowd gathered to mourn their loss and celebrate the impact he had on their lives.
