His name now is known. His killer or killers remain at large. The San Diego Sheriff’s Office Monday appealed to the public for help in solving what has become a disturbing mystery.
Fourteen year old Brandon Gonzalez was found collapsed on a sidewalk in the 3500 block of De Leone Road around 11 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gun shots around the intersection of De Leone and Hollencrest roads, according to 911 dispatchers. Callers said the victim stumbled a few steps, then collapsed on the sidewalk. He suffered a gunshot wound to his upper body mere blocks from his home.
Paramedics preformed CPR at the scene. The boy was transported to a local hospital where he later died, according to the San Diego’s Sheriff’s Office. The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the teen’s cause of death a homicide.
“It’s very unfortunate,” one neighbor said later. “I can’t believe it happened right in front of my house.” The neighbor said she found a bullet hole in her outside kitchen wall.
San Diego Sheriff’s Lt. Kenn Nelson said his unit believed the murder may be related to gang activity, but had not ruled out any cause. Nelson said investigators have little to go on, despite canvassing the neighborhood multiple times to talk to neighbors and scouring the teen’s social media accounts for clues.
“No piece of information is too small,” Nelson said. “If someone knows anything, even something they may have disregarded before, it could be the missing puzzle piece. No 14-year-old child should have to die like this.”
The Sheriff’s Department homicide detail is asking that anyone with information about the case contact Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477, or after-hours, at (858) 565-5200. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous can call (888) 580-8477.
Any person that provides information leading to an arrest is eligible for a $1,000 reward.
