Cal State Long Beach student Estephan Hernandez died Thursday Sept. 28 during a drive-by shooting in Compton. The 21-year-old senior sociology student was struck down in the intersection of East 148th St. and Bahama Avenue.
The university released a statement Monday Oct. 2, honoring the student, who was consistently on the president’s list of academic achievements for his years at CSULB.
“We mourn the death of Estephan Hernández, who was an esteemed member of our Beach family. He was a scholar on track to receive a bachelor’s degree in sociology next spring,” Vice President of Student Affairs Carmen Taylor said in the press release. “Our hearts go out to Estephan’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Before attending CSULB, Hernandez served as class president and graduated with honors in 2014 from King Drew Magnet High School of Medicine and Science in South Los Angeles.
Hernandez was also a member of the Men’s Success Initiative, an organization that helps mentor and provide support for African American and Latino male students.
Chair of Sociology Kris Zentgraf issued a statement on the department website addressing victims of gun violence and commemorated the student’s life.
“While today most of the nation is focused on the tragedy in Las Vegas, in Long Beach we are also painfully aware of the impact of gun violence in our own backyard,” Zentgraf said. “We mourn the loss of a life taken far too soon. Our condolences go out to his family and those who had the privilege of knowing Estephan.”
A GoFundMe was created in memory of Hernandez to help his loved ones with memorial expenses. A BBQ fundraiser and a candlelight vigil was hosted at his family home in Compton yesterday to celebrate his life.
CSULB is holding a memorial service in the University Student Union ballrooms in remembrance of Hernandez. The event will take place Oct. 6 and is open to the public.
For more information about how to support the Hernandez family, visit @JusticeforEstephan Facebook page and the memorial GoFundMe page.
This story has been updated Oct. 3, 2017