HARTFORD, Conn. (1010 WINS) — A 16-year-old Hartford high school freshman became the city's 28th homicide victim this year after he was killed in a fatal shooting early Monday morning.
WFSB reports Wildemar Santiago was killed in a targeted shooting while walking on a sidewalk while visiting a vigil for a friend killed in another shooting last month.
Police tried to save his life, though he was rushed to Saint Francis Hospital and later died.
"Just like any other teenager, he loved to be surrounded with friends and loved ones and [this] is not the way for a young man to go," Santiago's aunt, Karolina Pagan told WFSB. "This whole year we've been dealing with death. This city not tired? These people not tired? Like, it's so sad. It's so sad."
Santiago's school, Weaver High School, confirmed the victim was an enrolled student and offered their support.
"Our District Crisis Intervention Team has been assembled and they will help with the needs of students, families, and school personnel, principal Tiffany Webley said in a letter to the school community. "We will have counselors and social workers available for any student who may need or want help or any type of assistance."
Anyone with information is asked to call Hartford police at 860-722-TIPS (8477).
