On the evening of May 5, 2023, 20-year-old Robert Emilio Simmons Jr. was fatally shot at Montgomery-Waller Community Park in San Diego’s Otay Mesa West neighborhood. Officers responding to reports of gunfire shortly after 7 p.m. found Simmons with gunshot wounds; he was pronounced dead at the scene. A 19-year-old companion suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital.

Investigators say Simmons and two companions had just arrived at the park when they were confronted by a group of males. One member of that group issued a gang challenge, and assailants began throwing glass bottles before at least one person opened fire. The shooters fled, possibly in a white sedan seen speeding eastbound on Coronado Avenue. No arrests have been announced and the SDPD Homicide Unit is asking the public for tips.

Simmons’ mother, Leann Vining, described him as funny, outgoing, and energetic; his sister, Alanna, said part of her feels just taken. A GoFundMe was created to help with funeral expenses. Does anyone who was in Otay Mesa West that evening or who knows anything about a white sedan seen on Coronado Avenue have information to share?