On the night of September 15, 2023, a tragic incident occurred in Palatine, Illinois, resulting in the deaths of two 16-year-old teenagers, Uriel Garcia Vanegas and Eduardo Alpizar. Uriel, a deaf student at John Hersey High School, was walking home with his younger brother and Eduardo when they were targeted by gunfire from a vehicle. According to eyewitness accounts and police reports, the group was heading to visit a friend’s apartment when Uriel’s mother called them to return home.
As they were walking back, a man in a car opened fire on them. Uriel, who could not hear the shots, tried to run away but was hit by gunfire. Eduardo was shot ten times and pronounced dead at the scene, while Uriel was shot once and later died at Lutheran General Hospital after being transported by the Palatine Fire Department.
The incident occurred in the 1800 and 1900 blocks of Green Lane North in Palatine. Uriel’s brother, who was with them, survived by hiding during the shooting. He attempted to wake Uriel, who was barely alive and struggling to breathe. Emergency services were called, but it took approximately twenty minutes for an ambulance to arrive, and Uriel succumbed to his injuries around midnight.
The Palatine Police Department, assisted by the Major Case Assistance Team, is investigating the shooting. Police have indicated that the incident appears to be gang-related and that the victims were targeted. Although the suspect vehicle has been recovered, no one is currently in custody in connection with the shooting. The police are seeking any information that could help in the investigation and are urging anyone with details to contact them at 847-359-9000.
Uriel was remembered by his peers and community for his positive personality. He was described as funny, honest, nice, respectful, and caring. He had a passion for trucks, shoes, and hats, and he dreamed of becoming a mechanic. His funeral was scheduled to take place the following week, and his younger brother would take his place in a quinceanera celebration that Uriel was supposed to be a part of.
The community, including Uriel’s family and the Deaf community, are seeking justice for the tragic loss. A GoFundMe campaign was set up to support Uriel’s family, and there has been an outpouring of support and condolences for those affected by the incident.
