Tragedy Strikes Santa Fe Springs: 16-Year-Old George San Martin Fatally Shot in Anaheim Park, Community Mourns Loss
The community of Santa Fe Springs is reeling in shock and disbelief after the tragic loss of 16-year-old George San Martin, a student at St. Paul High School. George’s life was senselessly cut short on Sunday, November 10, when he was fatally shot in the parking lot of John Marshall Park in Anaheim.
According to Anaheim Police Sgt. Armando Pardo, the shooting occurred around 8 p.m. in the park located at 2001 West La Palma Avenue, just east of the 5 Freeway. George suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the chest and was rushed to Anaheim Regional Medical Center by friends, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities have identified 19-year-old Samuel Galeno as the suspect in the shooting. Galeno was with a group at the park when they confronted George, leading to the altercation that resulted in the gunfire. Witnesses stated that Galeno shot George at least once. Galeno was arrested the following day after authorities executed a search warrant at his home and has been booked into the Anaheim Detention Center on charges of murder, with a $1 million bail.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities have not yet disclosed any information about the events leading up to the tragedy. Sgt. Pardo stated that George had no known gang affiliations, which raises further questions about the nature of the confrontation.
A GoFundMe has been created to support George’s family with funeral and memorial expenses. The account, set up by Jeff Diaz, reads: “On November 10th Heaven gained another little angel, George SanMartin. This tragedy has left our family devastated and grappling with an overwhelming sense of loss. No parent should have to bury their child.”
The community is coming together to mourn the loss of George San Martin, and his obituary will be released by the family shortly. As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. Rest in peace, George San Martin. Your memory will never be forgotten.
