Miguel Salgado, a 17-year-old male of Mexican descent, was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting on April 10, 2007, in Chicago, Illinois. Salgado was riding in the front seat of a friend’s car when a bullet struck him in the back of the head. The shooting occurred in the 1400 block of West Fuller Street, and authorities reported that the gunfire came from a nearby vehicle. His cousin, Benito Alva, who was also in the car, suggested that the shooting may have been a case of mistaken identity. The two had just left a barbershop and were heading to a shopping center when the attack took place.
Salgado was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his job at Gio’s Cafe, where he had been employed as a dishwasher for five weeks. His employer had planned to promote him to a higher-paying customer service position due to his bilingual skills. Salgado had dropped out of Juarez High School in 2005 but was taking night classes to earn his general equivalency diploma. He was the third oldest of eight children and lived with his family in their second-floor apartment on South Throop Street. His parents had emigrated from Mexico more than 20 years prior, and his father, Adan, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his son, recalling their time spent playing dominoes together on Saturdays.
At the time of the incident, Wentworth Area detectives were investigating the case, but no suspects had been taken into custody. Police had not identified a motive for the shooting. Salgado’s mother, Elisa, was devastated by the loss, sharing that her son had dreamed of buying a house for the family once he turned 18. Friends, family, and community members gathered at the Salgado home to mourn his passing, bringing food and offering support to his grieving loved ones. His employer and colleagues also expressed their sorrow, noting his reliability and dedication to his work.
Despite ongoing investigations, there were no arrests reported in connection with Salgado’s death. His family and community continued to seek answers and justice for the young man whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence.
