The Pomona Village community entered the new year shrouded in grief following a fatal shooting incident on New Year’s Eve that claimed the lives of two young men. Twenty-three-year-old Zion Samuels and twenty-two-year-old Luke Chavarria were fatally wounded by an unidentified assailant while socializing with friends outside Samuels’ residence.
According to eyewitness accounts, a lone gunman approached the group and opened fire without provocation, resulting in the immediate deaths of both victims. Four other individuals present at the scene managed to escape unharmed. Local law enforcement confirmed the suspect fled on foot and remains at large as investigations continue.
The tragedy has left families and community members devastated. Neidia Guzman, a longtime family friend, emotionally recounted the close relationships between the victims and her own family, emphasizing Samuels’ positive character and dedication to his children. The crime scene has since become a makeshift memorial with candles and flowers honoring the deceased.
Police authorities disclosed that while the precise motive remains undetermined, the property has historical connections to drug-related operations. Mark Samuels, father of Zion, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of his son, describing him as an easy-going individual who didn’t deserve such violence.
The investigation continues as community members grapple with the recurring pattern of gun violence affecting their neighborhood.