Andrew Farias passed away tragically during what should have been one of the happiest times of his life. The Texas teenager died in the early morning hours of May 25 when "after a fight between two girls escalated into a shootout in Uhland," per dailymail.co.uk. He graduated from high school just two days earlier and was at a party to celebrate the next day.
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One of Farias' pals was clearly devastated. "I had just, you know, watched him walk the stage online. You know, it was everybody - my whole family - we cheered for him when he walked the stage. We were so proud of him," Lorenzo Martinez recalled. He added, "He wanted to continue his education. He wanted to get his degree and be successful in his life. And, you know, now he doesn't have the chance to do that."
A GoFundMe established in Farias' memory by his aunt Crystal Trevino, noted that "He was a light in our lives — always smiling, full of love, compassion, and kindness. His presence brought warmth to everyone around him, and his absence leaves a hole in our hearts that can never be filled." As of Monday afternoon, $20, 667 had been raised from nearly 500 donations. The goal is $30,000.
What Led To Andrew Farias Being Fatally Shot
Per the outlet via court documents obtained by Fox 7, at 1:00 am, a woman believed to be the aunt of Andrew Farias requested that guests at the party depart. This was allegedly prior to the fight starting. A disruption ensued, reportedly because some party-goers supposedly made faces and began chatting about others in attendance.
One young man, whom the outlet identified as Chad Lee-Gardner, 18, "'jumped in' and struck [Farias' aunt] on the head with a handgun." Farias then supposedly became involved. At that point, Lee-Gardner allegedly fired a gun twice. Farias got shot "at least once," per the outlet via Law & Crime.
Farias' Girlfriend And Mom Were Grief-Stricken
Mariana De Luna, Farias' girlfriend, remembers his last heartbreaking moments, according to the outlet via KEYE. "Me seeing him fall to the ground was the hardest thing. The last thing he did was grab my fingers. I'm glad her knew I was with him till the very end."
Shannon Vasquez, his mother, tearfully said, according to the outlet via CBS News, "My Andrew, that was my baby. He had the biggest smile. He was such a loving, responsible, and hardworking baby." Farias played on his high school's football team and intended to go to Texas State University this fall.
The Alleged Shooter Was Apprehended In Austin
Chad Lee-Gardner reportedly left the scene of the shooting but police quickly caught up with him in Austin. He was arrested "and charged with murder," per the outlet.
