WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah — An online fundraiser has been set up for the family of Tongan teenage boy who died after a shooting early Sunday morning 17 in West Valley City.
Neko Noa Jardine was rushed to hospital where he underwent surgery for his injuries.
Police said he and two other young men were confronted by unknown suspects outside a home near 5600 West and 4300 South.
He was shot in the neck, chest and abdomen and was taken by a friend to the hospital.
The police tweeted his death on Sunday evening, but no further details were made available, Gephardt Daily has reported.
The call initially came in as a drive-by shooting, but police believe the shooting also involved some sort of confrontation or altercation.
In this same incident, a 17-year-old male was shot three times in the legs and an 18-year-old male had a large cut on his arm. Both of those victims were transported by ambulance to the hospital, where they were treated for their injuries and released.
On Tuesday, West Valley City police released a photo showing part of a suspect vehicle that may be connected to the homicide.
“Investigators have obtained a partial photo of the suspect vehicle in the shooting homicide of 19-year-old Neko Jardine,” says the WVCPD tweet, issued Tuesday.
“It’s a red sedan, possibly Nissan Altima or Maxima. Please RT & if you recognize this vehicle or have info about this crime, call 801-840-4000.”
The GoFundMe page set up by Jardine’s family said: “Our sweet boy, Neko Noa Jardine, returned home to our Heavenly Father — Sunday, July 14, 2019.
“Neko was raised by his Nana, Sherry Jardine, who became everyone’s Nana. Nana raised him and helped him excel in sports, academics, church events, and watched him thrive with all his friends and family. Neko was an example of loyalty, hard work, service and known for being there with you ’til the very end.
“On behalf of Neko Noa’s Family — Nana, Jason, Leslie, Sione and Tuna. We want to thank you all for the outpouring of love and support for our family and for our Neko Noa. Despite the way he was taken from us, we will forever be grateful that he was given to us in the first place.”
“Please help us is in supporting his Nana during this hardship by donating to this GoFundMe account. All proceeds will be used for his medical expenses and funeral services. Thank you for all your love and support. Malo Aupito. Ofa Lahi Atu.”
