In the back lot of the Stockton Downtown Waterfront Warehouse, a memorial has been set up near parking stalls for an 18-year-old man who was fatally shot this week.
Xavier Galvez was found by police on June 22 in the 400 block of West Weber Avenue suffering from a gunshot wound.
Officers responded to the area at about 1:15 a.m. on a report of a person shot. Galvez was found by officers and taken to a hospital, where he died, police said.
A cement wall has black ink that states, “LLChino Forever Yo Wrld,” in capital letters. Just to the side of the wall, a bright blue poster with the name “Chino” was taped.
Tall religious candles, a religious statue, small white candles, flowers in vases with messages inscribed and some alcohol bottles were placed on the floor of the memorial site.
Some messages on the vases stated, “Love you with all my heart,” “You were my blood brother and there wasn’t a day I wasn’t with you,” “I miss you so much my heart is breaking.”
Galvez’s death marked the city’s 14th homicide reported in Stockton, with a total of 15 so far this year.
Galvez’s family created a GoFundMe seeking donations from the public. The fundraiser’s goal is $6,500, and it has raised $5,218 as of Friday.
“With heavy hearts, we are asking for your support as our family mourns the heartbreaking loss of our beloved son, brother, nephew, and grandson,” the GoFundMe page stated.
The family said their loved one was taken too soon. They said Galvez left behind family and friends who loved him deeply.
“No parent or family should ever have to experience a loss like this, and we were not prepared for the emotional and financial burden that comes with it,” the GoFundMe stated. “We have created this GoFundMe to help with our family during this difficult time.”
The family said any donation, no matter the size, is appreciated. Anyone who can’t donate was asked to share the fundraiser and keep the family in their thoughts and prayers.
“Thank you for your love, kindness, and support as we honor his life and cherish the memories he leaves behind,” the GoFundMe stated.
Record reporter Victoria Franco covers public safety in Stockton and San Joaquin County. She can be reached at vfranco@gannett.com. Support local news, subscribe to The Stockton Record at https://www.recordnet.com/subscribenow.
This article originally appeared on The Record: Loved ones create memorial for 18-year-old killed in Stockton shooting
Reporting by Victoria Franco, The Stockton Record / The Record
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Victoria Franco, The Stockton Record | USA TODAY Network
