Teen Shot, Left to Die on San Marcos Sidewalk Mourned

Shots were reported around 10:50 p.m. on Nov. 20 at De Leone and Hollencrest roads, where a critically injured teenager was discovered by deputies

Authorities are still searching for a motive and suspect in the case of a 14-year-old boy left mortally wounded on a sidewalk in San Marcos Friday night as his close friends and family mourn his death. 

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department (SDSO) said the victim – identified as 14-year-old Brandon Gonzalez – was discovered unconscious, lying on a sidewalk in the 3500 block of De Leone Road around 10:50 p.m. when deputies rushed to the area to investigate reports of multiple gunshots heard near the intersection of De Leone and Hollencrest roads.

Gonzalez, suffering from traumatic injuries, took him to a local hospital, where he died. The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office (ME) ruled the teen's cause of death a gunshot wound to his upper torso, and his manner of death ruled a homicide.

Gonzalez’s death is being investigated as a homicide, though further details were not immediately released as authorities continued searching for information. 

Detectives spent 12 hours in the neighborhood Gonzalez was shot, trying to work on any leads. 

Meanwhile, family and friends gathered Sunday to mourn the loss of their friend at a San Marcos house. 

Deputies said the shooting may be gang-related, but the investigation is ongoing and anyone with information should contact the SDSO Homicide Detail at (858) 974-2321 or (858) 565-5200, or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477. Tipsters can remain anonymous and could be eligible for up to a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest in this case. 

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