Fourteen-year-old Erick Balanzar Loeza of San Diego was fatally shot in a drive-by while walking home from school on January 31, 2022, near 36th and J Street in the Mount Hope neighborhood. Community members described the location as neglected; vigils and memorials followed as family and neighbors mourned a beloved son and called for change.

Police arrested five people in connection with the shooting; the arrestees were reported to be between 17 and 19 years old. Three adults were charged with murder and gang-related offenses, and two juveniles were implicated. The suspects have pleaded not guilty and further court proceedings are scheduled.

The case has focused attention on gang violence and the need for community intervention in Mount Hope. Does anyone have information about Erick, the neighborhood, or the events that night that could help investigators or the family?