In the fall of 2017, the life of 14-year-old Hispanic male, David Sandoval-Hilarios, was tragically cut short in a senseless act of violence in Everett, Washington. On October 4, 2017, Sandoval-Hilarios, a freshman at Mariner High School, was fatally shot in what police have described as a gang-related incident. The Snohomish County Medical Examiner's Office later confirmed that the cause of his death was homicidal violence.
The events leading to the fatal shooting began earlier that day
at a middle school in south Everett. A 13-year-old boy reportedly confronted David about his blue shoes and flashed a gun. About an hour later, their paths crossed again at the Walden Pond Apartments. According to court records, the 13-year-old claimed that David and his friend challenged him about his gang affiliation before the shooting occurred. David was shot in the chest and died at a local hospital.
In the wake of the shooting, a 13-year-old male was arrested and faced a charge of second-degree murder. He was held at the Denney Juvenile Justice Center. The investigation revealed that the suspect had allegedly borrowed the 9mm handgun from a 12-year-old friend. The 13-year-old later led police to the weapon, which was found wrapped in a blue bandana. Witnesses told detectives that the alleged shooter had pointed the gun at multiple people that day and had expressed a desire to be known as "lil shooter".
David Sandoval-Hilarios was remembered as a caring and comedic young man who was a dedicated volunteer at Hand in Hand, an organization that supports children entering the foster care system. He was known for his willingness to help with behind-the-scenes tasks, such as preparing soccer fields for younger children. His father, Marcos Sandoval, stated that his son was not in a gang at the time of his death and believes he was killed over the color of his shoes. Those who knew him described him as a bright and funny individual who would give up his own lunch for someone in need.
