Erik Joseph Rael was 17 when he was killed by a gun on January 19, 2003. A resident of Albuquerque and born January 31, 1985 in Las Vegas, San Miguel County, New Mexico, he was buried at Santa Fe National Cemetery in Santa Fe. Friends and family remembered him as someone who loved to make everyone laugh and was always willing to help anyone; his bright smile and uplifting presence are specifically recalled.

If anyone knew Erik, his movements around January 19, 2003, or has information about the shooting, please share what is known.