Elijah Ortega was 16 when he was shot and killed in a local park in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, on June 24, 2020. A rising varsity basketball player, Ortega was remembered by teammates and family for his infectious smile and competitive spirit. Witnesses said Baez pulled the weapon from a fanny pack; Ortega shouted for people to run and was struck twice as he turned to flee. He was taken to Hartford Hospital, where he died.

Investigators identified Baez, 26, of Hartford, as the shooter and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Sydney Witchard was reported to have driven Baez and others to the park and was later charged with hindering prosecution. Friends and family held a vigil at Pesci Park to mourn Ortega.

If anyone has information about what happened that day or knew Elijah, please come forward and share what you know.