San Pedro, California – A beloved community advocate and mentor, Jose Quezada Jr., tragically lost his life in a senseless act of violence on July 27th. He was gunned down on the edge of Wilhall Park in Wilmington, a district of south Los Angeles, leaving behind a grieving family and community.
Known as “Coach” to his community, Quezada devoted nearly 30 years to coaching basketball and baseball, with a passion for keeping kids away from gangs. He volunteered his time to create safe spaces for families to enjoy city parks and even cooked for hundreds of people at public events through organizations aimed at keeping kids off the streets.
The loss of such a dedicated and caring role model has been heart-wrenching for his family and the larger community of Wilmington. But finally, after months of anguish, there have been developments in the case. The Los Angeles Police Department has announced the arrest of two suspects in connection with Quezada’s murder.
The two suspects, Sergio Esteban, 28, and Estevan Hernandez, 27, are both charged with murder and are currently held in custody. Police believe that the motive for the crime was gang-related, as both suspects are documented gang members. However, the connection between the suspects and Quezada remains unclear.
The news of the arrests brings a glimmer of hope for Quezada’s family, who have been advocating for justice since his tragic passing. It is a small step towards closure for the community, but many questions still remain unanswered, leaving the community grappling with the senseless violence that took the life of such a beloved figure.
Quezada’s wife, Sandy DeLaMora, has expressed the pain and devastation that the family has endured, urging for answers and questioning the cowardice of the suspects. The impact of such a loss is immeasurable, not only for the family but for the entire neighborhood and beyond.
The arrest of the suspects brings some relief, but it does not erase the pain or bring back the man who meant so much to so many. The community of Wilmington will continue to mourn the loss of Jose Quezada, a man who dedicated his life to uplifting and guiding others. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, and the impact of his work will not be forgotten.