Matao Herrera was an 11-year-old boy from San Ysidro, California, who was killed on July 18, 1984, during the San Ysidro McDonald’s massacre. He was at the restaurant with his family after returning from a camping trip and family reunion in Ensenada. His mother, Blythe Regan Herrera, was also killed; his father, Ronald Herrera, was critically wounded as he tried to shield Matao and another child.

The attack was carried out by 41-year-old James Huberty, who entered the McDonald’s armed with multiple firearms and opened fire, killing 21 people and wounding 19 others. The shooting lasted 77 minutes and ended when a SWAT team sniper fatally shot Huberty. No arrests followed because the sole perpetrator was killed at the scene.

Victims’ families, including the Herreras, later filed lawsuits against McDonald’s and the restaurant’s security company alleging negligence. The San Ysidro massacre remains a tragic example of mass gun violence and its lasting toll on families and community members.

If anyone knew Matao or the Herrera family, or has information about their lives before July 18, 1984, please share what you can.