SAN PEDRO, Calif. – Last week, 11-year-old Brandon Quezada made a simple birthday wish to celebrate at Red West Pizza, one of the best pizza spots in Wilmington. But for Brandon and his family, it was another first milestone without their father, Jose Quezada Jr., who was tragically gunned down on the edge of Wilhall Park after a public event in Wilmington.
Jose Quezada, known as “Coach” in his community, dedicated nearly 30 years to coaching basketball and baseball in Wilmington, with the belief that sports could keep kids away from gang life. Beyond coaching, he also spent his free time mentoring both youth and adults and fundraising for those in need.
After months of unsolved grief, the Los Angeles Police Department announced the arrest of two suspects in the murder of Jose Quezada. Sergio Esteban, 28, and Estevan Hernandez, 27, both residents of San Pedro, now face murder charges and could be sentenced to 35 years to life in prison if convicted.
According to police, both suspects are documented gang members, and the case is believed to be gang-related.
While the arrests have offered a small sense of relief and a step towards justice, questions still linger about the motive for the shooting and the impact it has had on Quezada’s family and the Wilmington community.
Quezada’s widow, Sandy DeLaMora, echoed the sentiments of many when she spoke at a news conference expressing her anger and heartbreak over her husband’s senseless murder. She emphasized the impact of the loss on their family and the pain and suffering it has caused.
As the community begins to grapple with the arrests and legal proceedings, the tragic reality is that this story is not unique. It reflects a broader issue of gun violence in America, with countless families still seeking justice for their lost loved ones.
In the face of such senseless violence, it is essential to not only mourn the loss of individuals like Jose Quezada but also to work towards addressing the root causes and systemic issues that perpetuate such tragedies.