Tragedy struck on Valentine's Day when 15-year-old David S. Gutierrez was fatally stabbed on Santana Row in San Jose during what should have been a romantic evening out. The teen, a student at Sequoia High School in Redwood City, was on a date with his girlfriend when he was assaulted by a group of juveniles, according to information provided by a verified GoFundMe page established to support his family's funeral expenses. Gutierrez was subsequently rushed to a hospital but did not survive his injuries, "he was beaten and then stabbed in the heart," the fundraising page states. As reported by ABC7 News, the victim's family expressed their devastation, describing David as "an amazing young man whose life was taken too soon."
Local law enforcement responded to the disturbance at 7:14 p.m. last Friday but arrived to find that the suspects had vanished before their arrival. Despite a massive brawl occurring just days later in San Pedro Square, which led to multiple arrests, police have yet to identify any suspects in Gutierrez's killing, as per Hoodline. Following the violence, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan reassured the public, stating, "Whenever violence occurs in San Jose, we respond swiftly, professionally, and thoroughly to hold criminals accountable and keep our residents safe," in a comment reported by KRON4.
The GoFundMe page, set up by David's aunt, has already amassed over $20,000 in donations to cover the unexpected funeral costs. David is remembered by those at Gladiators Boxing Gym in Redwood City, where he trained as more than a fighter; he was a cherished part of their community. Berto Barrita, David's boxing coach, lamented to KRON4, "He liked to workout and hang out with his friends here. It still doesn’t feel real and it doesn’t feel right."
In the wake of the incident, the San Jose Police Department has called upon the public to assist with information regarding the assailants. Detective Sergeant Van Den Broeck and Detective Estantino of the Homicide Unit are leading the investigation. The community can submit tips anonymously via the P3TIPS mobile app or through the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers Program, as covered by Hoodline.
