Romantic Valentine’s Day outing turned into a nightmare when 15-year-old David Gutierrez was brutally attacked and fatally stabbed while spending the evening with his girlfriend. His devastated family is now seeking answers, describing the teen as a bright and kind-hearted young man whose life was stolen far too soon.
The horrifying attack took place on Friday night at Santana Row in San Jose. Around 7:15 p.m., police responded to reports of a violent altercation. When officers arrived, they found David suffering from at least one stab wound. Despite their desperate efforts to save him, the teen was rushed to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
According to his grieving relatives, David was set upon by a group of unidentified juveniles who viciously beat him before plunging a knife into his heart. The attackers fled the scene before authorities arrived, and as of Sunday, no suspects had been identified.
“Our precious young boy was an amazing young man whose life was taken too soon,” his family wrote in a statement. “He was enrolled in college-bound classes, actively involved in church activities, and always had a smile that could brighten any room.”
David’s loved ones described him as gentle, kind, and full of energy. He was known for his warm presence and positive spirit, making his sudden and violent death all the more difficult to comprehend.
His boxing coach, Berto Barrita of Gladiators Boxing Gym in Redwood City, recalled the teen’s enthusiasm and friendly nature. “He was a good kid. He was outgoing, always surrounded by friends, and loved being part of the gym.”
A GoFundMe page set up by the family quickly surpassed its $20,000 goal, reaching $23,000 as of Tuesday morning. The funds will go toward funeral expenses as the family struggles to cope with their unimaginable loss.
Police are now working to determine the motive behind this senseless act of violence. As the investigation unfolds, David’s family remains in shock, desperately searching for answers. “We are at a complete loss,” they told ABC7. “We just can’t understand why anyone would do this.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they continue their search for those responsible for this tragic crime.
