Gabriel Rosario Cortez Obituary, Death; – The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation into the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old male in the Sheffield Forrest subdivision, located near Dean Road. The incident occurred shortly after 10 p.m. on Thursday evening. The identity of the victim, Gabriel Rosario Cortez, was disclosed by deputies at 4 p.m. on Friday.
Residents reported varying experiences of the event, with some hearing multiple gunshots while others heard nothing at all during the Thursday night incident. It was only after the arrival of first responders that they became aware of the situation.
“I was awakened around 11 o’clock by the sight of a fire truck in front of the house, along with two or three police vehicles. We were uncertain about what was happening,” stated Rick Hapney, a local resident.
Law enforcement maintained a presence on Chesham Drive throughout the night and into Friday, with the investigation appearing to focus on a specific residence. The sheriff’s office has not disclosed whether Rosario Cortez was a resident, a visitor, or involved in a confrontation at the home. Additionally, no motive for the shooting has been made public.
Records from the state division of corporation indicate that the address of a painting and pressure washing business, Anderson’s Quality Painting LLC, corresponds with the location of the residence. When approached for comment, the business declined to provide any information. Some pressure-washing equipment was visible in the backyard, which attracted significant attention from crime scene technicians collecting evidence.
“I have a wonderful relationship with them, and it is truly heartbreaking,” remarked neighbor Patty Young, who resides across the street from the site of the shooting on Chesham Drive. Young expressed her concern for the family renting the home, noting that they have teenage children.
“Primarily, I am worried about their well-being. This is a terrible situation. It is certainly shocking and somewhat alarming, but my main concern is how they are coping,” Patty Young added. Michael Young, who is not related to Patty Young, reported hearing what he initially thought was a cracking sound, which turned out to be gunfire, estimating he heard four to six shots.
