On the night of September 15, 2023, two 16-year-old boys, Uriel Garcia Vanegas and Eduardo Alpizar, were fatally shot while walking in the 1800 and 1900 blocks of Green Lane North in Palatine, Illinois. Uriel, a deaf student at John Hersey High School, was returning home with his younger brother and Eduardo after a friend’s apartment visit when a man in a car opened fire on them. Eduardo was struck multiple times and died at the scene; Uriel was hit once, transported by the Palatine Fire Department to Lutheran General Hospital, and died around midnight.

Uriel’s younger brother survived by hiding and tried to help Uriel, who was barely alive and struggling to breathe. Police say the shooting appears to be gang-related and that the victims were targeted. A suspect vehicle has been recovered but no one is in custody. The Palatine Police Department, with the Major Case Assistance Team, is investigating and asks anyone with information to call 847-359-9000.

Uriel was remembered for his positive personality and his dreams of becoming a mechanic; his family and community, including the Deaf community, are seeking justice. If anyone knew Uriel or has information about that night, please contact the police.