Family mourns loss of teen boxer killed in suspected Santa Ana gang shooting

SANTA ANA, Calif. (KABC) -- Family and friends mourned the loss of a teen who loved boxing and school after he was gunned down in a suspected gang shooting in Santa Ana.

Isaac Gonzalez, 15, was shot multiple times and critically wounded Saturday night around midnight in the 2300 block of St. Gertrude Place. On Sunday night, he was taken off life support, his family said.

Friends said he was a good kid who loved school and encouraged his peers to join boxing. Gonzalez trained with TKO Boxing, a nonprofit gang prevention program. The organization posted a photo of him on Thursday saying that he had lost 88 pounds and was ready to compete.

"He was ready to get his amateur boxing license when, unfortunately, this incident happened," coach Hector Lopez said.

He added that Gonzalez's death has been tough on everyone who knew him. He said about 30 to 40 of the kids in the program went to the hospital to see Gonzalez and they did not know he was taken off life support.

A memorial in front of his home continued to grow Monday afternoon as people left photos, flowers and candles in Gonzalez's honor.

Authorities did not have a description of the suspect or suspects, but said a dark-colored car was seen in the area around the time of the shooting.

Police said it appears the shooting was gang related, but Gonzalez's family said he was not a gang member.

"The kid dressed in Hurley gear and surf wear. I don't see too many gang members being dressed like that or wanting to come in and learn the sport and being disciplined," Lopez said.

Gonzalez was the oldest of three children, his family said. A vigil is expected Monday evening.

A GoFundMe Account has been set up to help the family pay for funeral expenses. You may donate by clicking here.

Anyone with more information is urged to call the Santa Ana Police Department.