Bakersfield police are asking anyone with video from a Halloween party to come forward after a 16-year-old was shot and killed early Saturday morning.
Officers responded to the 3500 block of S Half Moon Drive at around 3:35 a.m. and found William Aviles suffering from severe gunshot injuries. He was taken to a hospital, where he later died.
Aviles played tight end and defensive lineman for North High School’s football team. Outside football, he dreamed of a future that included nice cars and financial success, according to those who knew him.
The North High School football team announced his death in a statement: “It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of former football player William Aviles. His life, memory, and impact will never be forgotten. Praying for comfort, strength, and peace for all who loved him during this difficult time.”
A GoFundMe campaign set up for Aviles described him as someone who left a lasting impression on everyone around him. “To anyone who knew him, William was a force of nature. He had a bigger-than-life, magnetic personality that commanded every room he walked into. He possessed a wisdom and maturity that went far beyond his 16 years,” the fundraiser read.
The post also described his family circumstances. “The truth is, William grew up with very little, living in a proud, hard-working household with his Mom, Dad, and three little sisters who absolutely worshiped him. He didn’t complain about what he lacked—he scraped everything he had out of nothing, and he did it the hard way. The proud way.”
As of this writing, the GoFundMe has raised more than $8,100 toward its $14,000 goal.
Police Seek Witness Video
Bakersfield police told FOX 26 that numerous bystanders witnessed and recorded the shooting. Investigators are urging anyone with footage to submit it to authorities. No suspect has been identified.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Matthew Guerra at 661-326-3872 or the Bakersfield Police Department at 661-327-7111.
Second Teen Football Player Killed in Months
Aviles’ death follows the fatal shooting of 17-year-old quarterback Levi Brown, who was killed during a high school football game in Bakersfield in late August. A 15-year-old suspect was arrested in that case, and police later said the two teens knew each other and that the shooting “was not a random act of violence.”
