Family, Friends Gather To Remember 15-Year-Old Killed In West Valley Shooting

WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah – The family of a 15-year-old boy, who was shot and killed, gathered to remember him Wednesday evening.

West Valley City police said Marquez Grajeda was killed after a friend pointed a gun at him and pulled the trigger.

Spokesperson Roxeanne Vainuku said witnesses told them the boy did not mean to shoot Marquez. She said the boys were on lunch break from school and had gathered at a house when the shooting happened in an upstairs bedroom. She said the 14-year-old left the scene, but was later found and taken into custody for investigation of criminal homicide.

“It’s so hard. I miss him so, so much already,” said Marquez’s older sister, Agustina Lopez.

Lopez said Marquez was the “baby of the family.” She said she would always remember her brother for his personality.

“He had a way of you just liking him right away. He was very lovable,” she said.

Lopez gathered with her and Marquez’ mother, extended family, and friends Wednesday evening outside the family’s home in West Valley City. They lit candles around a picture of Marquez and brought some of his favorite snacks. Snow fell as they huddled together remembering Marquez.

“It means a lot. It really does mean a lot. It just shows you how much he was cared for,” Lopez said.

As they remembered Marquez, Lopez said they were also thinking of the family of the 14-year-old boy who police said shot him.

“They’re going through a loss too, you know,” she said. “My heart goes out their family too. It really does. It’s heartbreaking.”

Marquez’ family has created an online fundraiser to help with funeral expenses.

Vainuku said the criminal homicide charge West Valley City police booked the 14-year-old on would allow for charges in the case of an intentional or negligent shooting. Ultimately, the Salt Lake County District Attorney will determine which charges are filed.