Robert James Sandoval, 15, known as R.J., was fatally shot in an alley on Pueblo’s lower east side on December 8, 2019. The incident occurred near the 1700 block of East Ash Street while Sandoval, who was from Walsenburg, was visiting his girlfriend and her family. His girlfriend was reportedly nearby and held him as he died. Family members described him as loving, compassionate, and fond of camping, rapping, and spending time with family and friends; she was pregnant with their first child at the time.

Police described two potential suspects seen running from the alley after shots were fired: both Hispanic males in their late teens, one thin and wearing a gray Nike hoodie, the other thin with a light complexion and dark clothing. Authorities said the three knew each other and were investigating whether the shooting was gang- or drug-related, including reports that Sandoval had gone to the alley to exchange a gun for cash. No motive had been confirmed.

Does anyone who knew R.J. or who was in the lower east side area that afternoon have information that could help clarify what happened?