West Valley City boy dies after being shot in the face

A 14-year-old boy died after being shot in the face while sitting in a car at a West Valley City park early Thursday morning.

The teenager, identified as Romeo Rodriquez, died Thursday afternoon, according to West Valley City police spokeswoman Roxeanne Vainuku. He was a resident of Salt Lake City. 

Public safety dispatchers sent West Valley City police officers to Jordan Valley Medical Center at 3:13 a.m. after receiving a report of the teen being brought in with the gunshot wound.

Further investigation revealed the shooting had taken place at Kings Pointe Park, 1330 W. Rothchild Drive (3665 South). The boy reportedly was sitting in a car with four other youths when another vehicle drove up and someone opened fire from inside.

The 14-year-old was the only one believed shot. After initial treatment at Jordan Valley Medical Center, he was flown to Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, where he was declared dead.

Police did not immediately have a description of the suspects. Investigation, including the possibility the incident may have been gang-related, was just beginning.

“Investigators are interviewing the boys‘ friends, gathering evidence and looking for anyone who may have seen or heard something during the shooting or even leading up to it,” Vainuku said.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call WVCPD at 801-840-4000.