A Southern California high school football player who dreamed of one day playing in the NFL was stabbed to death during a violent street fight as investigators search for suspects in the tragic slaying.
Aziel Zacapala, 15, a sophomore at Rosemead High School, died after he and two other people were stabbed around 1 p.m. Friday, in the 9700 block of Fern Street in nearby El Monte, authorities said.
The two other victims, identified only as adult men, survived and remain hospitalized in stable condition, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, which is assisting the El Monte Police Department with the homicide investigation.
According to investigators, the stabbing occurred during an altercation and police were alerted after a local hospital reported that three victims had been brought in.
A memorial of candles, flowers and a cross now marks the spot where the deadly violence unfolded across the street from an elementary school.
Aziel later died from his injuries.
Detectives have not determined how many suspects were involved and said they do not yet have a description of those responsible.
Heartbroken family members remembered Aziel as a talented young athlete with a bright future.
“Aziel Zacapala was a beloved nephew, friend, son, and high school football player whose life was tragically cut short,” read a note on the family’s GoFundMe page. “Aziel was a good kid, full of promise and kindness, and he had big dreams of making it to the big leagues as a football player.”
Classmates described Aziel as both a strong student and a standout on the football field.
The tragedy has shaken the Rosemead High School community.
“We understand this heartbreaking news may be difficult for members of our school community, particularly those who knew Aziel personally,” El Monte Union High School District Superintendent Edward Zuniga said. “El Monte Union Wellness Coordinator support will be available for both students and staff at Rosemead High School who may need assistance during this time.”
The investigation remains active as authorities work to identify and locate the suspect or suspects involved in the fatal stabbing.
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