Stand with the Figueroa Family in Their Time of Grief

Support the Figueroa Family in the Loss of Their Son, Javier "Milo"

With the permission of Joseph Figueroa and Wendy Gomez, we are sharing this deeply painful story.

The Figueroa family is grieving an unimaginable tragedy: the loss of their beloved son, Javier "Milo", a kind and bright young boy whose life was taken far too soon.

On the evening of September 13th, Joseph received a frantic call from his sons, Juan and Milo. The boys were terrified—being chased aggressively by a man. Joseph told them to head toward the Yuma Police Department and call 911 while he rushed out the door in fear for this children's safety.

Tragically, by the time Joseph arrived near 16th Street and 4th Avenue, the unthinkable had already happened. Milo was critically injured, and Juan had been detained.

What followed only compounded the heartbreak. Joseph was denied the right to be with his son in his final moments—barred from riding in the ambulance and kept away at the hospital. Within an hour, Milo passed away without the comfort of his father by his side.

The family has since faced confusion, conflicting information, and a lack of compassion from authorities. Witnesses and community members have come forward and have been turned away by YPD, yet the family has been left with few answers and heavy grief.

We have received messages and witness videos identifying the 36-year-old man who assaulted the brothers, yet Juan, who is also a victim, was the only one detained. We need more information than "your son is dead; you may get details by Tuesday," or you may see a body by Friday." The conduct we've observed from the YPD has shown no empathy, compassion, or professionalism. We want the responsible party held accountable. The attacker followed, intimidated, and assaulted two teens over a traffic incident. In court, Juan was told he was not a victim or victim representative, and on social media, we were notified of his charges. It feels like a slap to all families who lose loved ones to senseless violence. Both adults in the incident walked away; Juan remained detained.

Now, they are turning to the community for help.

How You Can Help

Donations will go directly to funeral expenses, memorial arrangements, and immediate support for Joseph and his family during this devastating time. These funds will not be used for any legal fees.

Sharing this page will help spread awareness, ensuring Milo’s story is heard and that the family receives the support they need.

Information or guidance—if you know anything or can help bring clarity to what happened, please reach out.

Joseph should not have to worry about finances while mourning the loss of his son and seeking justice. Your kindness, generosity, and prayers mean more than words can express.

Above all, the Figueroa family asks for truth, transparency, and accountability in this case so Milo’s memory is honored with the dignity he deserves.

Thank you for standing with them in love, compassion, and justice.