Darius Wong Obituary and the Tragic Baldwin Park Shooting: A Community Mourns the Loss of Two Innocent Lives
Baldwin Park, California—a tight-knit community known for its family-friendly atmosphere—was shattered this past weekend by a violent tragedy that left two lives lost in a brutal and senseless shooting. Authorities have identified the second victim of the double homicide as 43-year-old Darius Wong, whose tragic death, along with that of Baldwin Park Police Officer Samuel Riveros, has sent shockwaves through the community. Both were victims of a violent confrontation involving 22-year-old Eduardo Roberto Medina-Berumen, who is accused of fatally shooting Wong and Officer Riveros during a chaotic sequence of events that escalated quickly on the evening of Saturday, June 1, 2025.
As investigators work tirelessly to piece together the details of the incident, family members, friends, and the broader Baldwin Park community are left grappling with the unthinkable—two lives lost too soon. Darius Wong, a beloved husband, father, and friend, is being remembered for his warmth, compassion, and commitment to his family, while Officer Riveros, a dedicated law enforcement officer who had served since 2016, is mourned as a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
The Tragic Night: How Darius Wong’s Life Was Taken
It was a typical Saturday evening in Baldwin Park when the events that would forever alter the lives of its residents began to unfold. Darius Wong, having just dropped off his wife and children at a nearby housewarming party, was driving around the neighborhood in search of a parking space. Wong’s family later confirmed that he had no involvement in the dispute that would lead to the fatal events. They describe him as a man who had simply been in the wrong place at the wrong time.
According to surveillance footage reviewed by investigators, Wong was seen walking along Palm Avenue shortly after 7 p.m. The video footage captured Wong as he turned onto Filhurst Avenue, and for the next few minutes, he was out of sight. Two minutes later, the sound of four rapid gunshots echoed through the residential area. Residents near the scene described hearing the sharp crack of gunfire. Tamara Ayala, a local resident, recalls the startling noise. “We just heard three loud noises. We didn’t realize it was gunfire at first,” she said. “We checked our security camera, and then my mom stepped outside. That’s when we saw him lying on the ground.”
At this point, it became clear that Wong had been struck by gunfire. While witnesses initially thought it was a case of mistaken identity or some other misfortune, the unfolding tragedy quickly escalated into something much darker.
A Dispute Over Parking: The Catalyst of Chaos
As details began to emerge, it became apparent that the shooting may have been triggered by a seemingly trivial dispute over a parking space. According to local resident Esther, a housewarming party was taking place in the neighborhood, hosted by some new neighbors. “He told the guy not to park there,” Esther recalled, referring to a confrontation between the suspect, Medina-Berumen, and another individual. “But the guy did anyway, and that seems to have sparked everything.”
However, Wong’s family is adamant that he had no involvement in the disagreement and was simply caught in the chaos that followed. It is believed that Wong was not the person who had originally been in conflict with Medina-Berumen over the parking issue. Instead, Wong was merely a bystander who found himself in the wrong place at the wrong time, as the violence quickly spiraled out of control.
Footage from Ring security cameras obtained by ABC7 confirmed the terrifying moments leading up to Wong’s death. In the footage, Wong can be seen running down the street, trying to flee for his life. But it was too late. Within moments, the gunfire intensified, and Wong was fatally struck. Neighbor Norma Lemus, who was watching from her window, recalled the heartbreaking scene: “He ran through the middle of the street and collapsed right over there. By the time I got close, he was already on the ground.”
The Escalation: A Shootout With Police
The situation continued to escalate as Baldwin Park Police officers responded to the scene. As they arrived, they engaged in a gunfire exchange with Medina-Berumen, who continued to shoot at officers. Tragically, during this confrontation, Officer Samuel Riveros was struck and killed. Another officer, Anthony Pimentel, was also wounded but has since been treated and released from the hospital. The officer’s injuries were non-life-threatening, but the death of Officer Riveros marked a devastating moment for the Baldwin Park Police Department and the community at large.
Officer Riveros had served the Baldwin Park Police Department with distinction since 2016. In recognition of his service and sacrifice, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger ordered all flags at county buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Officer Riveros’s memory. “Officer Riveros was a true public servant, dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community,” Supervisor Barger remarked in a statement. “His bravery and commitment to justice will not be forgotten.”
The tragic loss of both Wong and Officer Riveros has left a gaping hole in the hearts of their families and the broader Baldwin Park community. As the investigation into the shooting continues, questions remain about the exact circumstances that led to this tragic outcome.
The Suspect: Eduardo Roberto Medina-Berumen
Eduardo Roberto Medina-Berumen, 22, was identified as the suspect responsible for the deaths of both Darius Wong and Officer Samuel Riveros. Medina-Berumen, who was taken into custody shortly after the shooting, is facing two murder charges for the deaths of Wong and Riveros. Investigators are working to piece together the details of Medina-Berumen’s history and any potential motives behind the tragic events.
According to authorities, Medina-Berumen has a history of run-ins with law enforcement, though it is unclear whether these prior encounters played a role in the events that transpired on June 1. Investigators are looking into any potential connections between Medina-Berumen and other individuals involved in the dispute, as well as any other factors that may have contributed to his violent actions that evening.
At this time, authorities are continuing to review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and analyze the evidence in an effort to uncover the full details of what led to the shooting. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and investigators are working diligently to determine the factors that triggered the fatal confrontation.
A Community in Mourning
As the Baldwin Park community comes to terms with the devastating loss of Darius Wong and Officer Riveros, tributes have poured in from all corners of the region. Family, friends, and colleagues have shared their memories of the two men, remembering them for their kindness, compassion, and dedication to their respective communities.
The sidewalk where Darius Wong collapsed has since become a memorial site, with flowers, candles, and heartfelt tributes left in his honor. His family, friends, and community members are left to cope with the painful reality of his death, and they continue to mourn the senseless loss of a man who was taken far too soon.
Meanwhile, Officer Riveros’s colleagues at the Baldwin Park Police Department are grappling with the loss of one of their own. Riveros’s death has left a lasting impact on his fellow officers, who remember him as a dedicated and hardworking law enforcement professional. A vigil is planned for Friday evening at the Baldwin Park Police Department to honor Officer Riveros’s life and service. The gathering is expected to draw fellow officers, city officials, and residents alike, all coming together to pay tribute to a fallen hero.
The Legacy of Darius Wong: A Loving Husband and Father
Darius Wong’s family is devastated by the loss of a man who was described as a loving husband and father. Wong, who had simply been out looking for a place to park, was caught in a tragic chain of events that led to his untimely death. His family remembers him as a kind, hardworking man who loved his family dearly. His loss has left a deep void in their hearts, and they are left to navigate a world without him. Despite the chaos that surrounded his final moments, Wong’s family continues to honor his memory and cherish the love and joy he brought into their lives.
Darius Wong’s legacy will live on through the memories of his loved ones, and through the community that continues to mourn his passing. His family hopes that, in time, they will find peace and healing, but for now, they are left to grieve the loss of a man who was taken far too soon.
Baldwin Park: The Aftermath of a Senseless Tragedy
The double tragedy of Darius Wong and Officer Samuel Riveros has left Baldwin Park reeling. The violence that unfolded in what is typically a quiet residential neighborhood has sparked conversations about safety, gun violence, and the unpredictable nature of such confrontations. Baldwin Park residents, who have long prided themselves on their strong sense of community, are grappling with the reality of the senseless violence that has shaken their town to its core.
As the legal process moves forward and the investigation continues, Baldwin Park remains united in grief, but also in the hope that justice will be served for the lives lost that evening. While the pain of the tragedy will not soon be forgotten, the community is determined to come together to support the families of Wong and Riveros as they lay their loved ones to rest.
Conclusion: Honoring the Lives of Darius Wong and Officer Samuel Riveros
The loss of Darius Wong and Officer Samuel Riveros is a heartbreaking tragedy that has left a profound impact on Baldwin Park and beyond. As the families of the victims mourn their untimely deaths, the community stands in solidarity, offering support and comfort during this difficult time. The legacy of both men—their love, their service, and their impact on the lives of those around them—will continue to resonate for years to come. As Baldwin Park moves forward, it does so with a renewed commitment to justice, safety, and the hope that such senseless violence will never again shatter its peaceful community.
