A Valentine’s Day outing meant to create cherished memories turned into a heartbreaking t3agedy for one California family. On February 14, 15-year-old David Gutierrez was ettaked and fatally stabbed at a high-end shopping mall in San Jose, leaving his loved ones devastated and a community in mourning.
A Romantic Evening Ends in T3agedy
David Gutierrez, a bright and promising teenager, had planned a special evening for his high school sweetheart. Instead, his life was cruelly cut short when he was attacked by a group of juveniles in an act of shocking violence.
According to the San Jose Police Department (SJPD) , officers responded to a call at approximately 7:14 p.m. regarding a “fight involving multiple people” at Santana Row, a popular shopping and entertainment district in San Jose, California. Upon arrival, they discovered David suffering from at least one stab wound.
Emergency responders immediately administered life-saving measures before transporting him to a local hospital. Despite their efforts, the young teen succumbed to his injuries.
A Devastating Loss for Family and Friends
David’s tragic passing has left his family shattered. His loved ones described him as a kind, empathetic, and gentle young man who brought joy wherever he went.
“He was his family’s happy energy,” they told ABC7 News ABC7 . “Whenever he walked into a room, it simply lit up. Our precious young boy was an amazing young man whose life was taken too soon at the age of 15.”
David was not only a beloved son and friend but also a hardworking student with dreams of a bright future. He was enrolled in college-preparatory classes to set himself on a path toward higher education. Additionally, he was deeply involved in his community and church activities, showing a dedication to faith and service.
‘He Was a Good Kid’ – Remembering David’s Passion for Boxing
One of David’s passions was boxing. His coach at Gladiator’s Boxing Gym, Berto Barrita, shared fond memories of his young student, expressing his grief over the tragic loss.
“He was a good kid. He was outgoing and friends with everybody here,” Barrita said. “All these young guys here were his friends. He joined because his friends would come here too—he just wanted to be with them, hang out, and box.”
Barrita described the devastating impact of David’s passing on the local boxing community, emphasizing that the teen’s presence would be deeply missed.
Community Comes Together to Support the Grieving Family
David’s tragic death has sent shockwaves through the San Jose community. Family, friends, and even strangers have come together to show their support, offering condolences and donations to help his grieving loved ones.
A GoFundMe page organized by his aunt, Diana Gutierrez, has already raised nearly $32,000—far surpassing the original $20,000 goal. The funds will help cover funeral expenses and support David’s family in this incredibly difficult time.
“My condolences are with you and the family,” one donor shared on the fundraising page. “My daughter Emma was a great friend of David, and she is deeply affected by all of this. We will always carry David in our hearts and remember his beautiful big smile.”
Another contributor expressed similar sorrow: “My deepest condolences for your loss—this hurts.”
The fundraiser page also revealed chilling details about the attack: “David was beaten and then stabbed in the heart. He fought for his life but didn’t make it to surgery. We lost our baby.”
Search for Suspects Continues
As of now, the suspects responsible for this senseless act of violence remain unidentified and at large. The San Jose Police Department has yet to determine a motive for the attack, and the investigation remains ongoing.
In a statement, David’s grieving family expressed their heartbreak: “We are at a complete loss and trying to process this incomprehensible act of violence.”
A Life Taken Too Soon
The brutal killing of David Gutierrez has left an unfillable void in the hearts of those who knew him. A bright young man with a promising future, his death serves as a painful reminder of how fragile life can be.
May he rest in peace.
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