ONTARIO, Calif. – A 17-year-old Montclair High School graduate, who graduated only days before was shot in the head at a graduation celebration on Friday.
Eric Morales, of Montclair, had just graduated from Montclair High School on May 22, 2019. To celebrate, Eric and his friends went to a graduation party in the 100 block of West Caroline Court in the City of Ontario on Friday, May 25, 2019. At some point during the festivities, the suspect shot into the crowd. A single round struck Eric in his head. He was rushed to Pomona Valley Hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
Police are not sure if the suspect was a guest at the party or what the motive was. Now the family is left to wonder who did this to their Eric, and why? “My brother is someone who is full of life, radiant like the stars, and embodies the spirit of love,” said Fernie Morales, Eric’s brother. “Eric enjoyed the city skate park and spending time with friends. He had goals to make his parents proud by furthering his education at Mt. San Antonio College in the fall. Our heart burns for Eric and we ask for prayer and healing thoughts as he battles for his life.”
His family has started a Go Fund Me Account for those who would like to assist the family with the costs associated with his injury. “We will ensure that these funds are shepherded with honor and integrity for medical expenses,” said Fernie.
Police are asking anyone with information about the shooting or anyone who attended the party to contact the Ontario Police Department at 909-986-6711, or Detective Joe Tirre at 909-408-1862. Information can also be reported anonymously by calling WE-TIP at (800)78-CRIME or online at www.wetipcom.
