Lubbock Police were called to the drive-through of the McDonalds at 50th Street and I-27 Thursday evening. Officers found a 12-year-old had been shot.
Damien Cortez was pronounced dead at the scene. Police at first called it a suspicious death. On Friday morning, police released a statement saying the situation appeared to be an accident.
EverythingLubbock.com learned that Damien had been a student at Lubbock ISD, New Deal ISD, and most recently Roosevelt ISD.
Lubbock ISD issued the following statement:
Damien Cortez was a former student of Lubbock ISD. “Damien was a very bright child. He was the spelling bee champion at Hodges last year,” said Elsa Montes, principal at Hodges Elementary, where Damien attended school last year.
He was a big fan of Estacado High School graduate and professional baseball player AJ Ramos. A Lubbock ISD employee gave Damien the opportunity to attend a baseball camp with AJ Ramos, where this photo was taken.
Roosevelt issued the following statement.
Statement on the accidental shooting of Damien Cortez:
“We are heartbroken at the loss of life at such a young age. We have our own counselors, as well as from neighboring districts, available to meet with his classmates to provide any needed emotional support. Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers are extended to his family and friends impacted by this tragedy.”
New Deal ISD issued the following statement:
Damien Cortez was a former student of ours. He moved away after Christmas break.
We are deeply saddened and heartbroken to hear the news of Damien passing away last night. We have our counselor working with our students as they process this tragic news. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends. He was a good kid and he will be missed.
Sincerely,
Jesus Arenas Jr., Principal,New Deal Middle School
Note: A police report spelled the name as Damion. Roosevelt, Lubbock and New Deal ISD’s spelled the name as Damien.
Related Story: 12-Year-Old Shot Accidentally and Killed, Lubbock Police Say
