On Sunday, June 25, 2023, 15-year-old Diego Bravo Cervantes was fatally shot in a drive-by shooting in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago. The incident occurred around 4:11 p.m. near the intersection of South California Avenue and West Cermak Road, close to Cocula’s Mexican Restaurant and across the street from his former elementary school, Hammond Elementary School.
Diego was shot in the chest and was transported to Mount Sinai Hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
According to his family and former teachers, Diego was not involved in any gang activities and was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. His brother, Juan Bravo, described Diego as a kind and loving soul with a contagious smile, who enjoyed listening to music, playing video games, and shopping. Diego had many aspirations, including working hard to buy a house for his parents and pursuing a career as a graphic designer. He had just completed his first year of high school and was looking forward to graduating in three years.
The shooting is believed to have been a case of mistaken identity, as stated by Diego's brother. The Chicago police are investigating the incident, but as of the current date, no one is in custody.
Diego's death has been deeply felt by his family, friends, and former teachers. A GoFundMe page was set up by his brother Juan to cover the expenses for Diego's funeral, burial, and memorial. The community has been expressing their grief and calling for change to prevent such senseless violence in the future.
