The San Joaquin County Medical Examiner has identified the 17-year-old Cesar Chavez High School student who was shot and killed off-campus on Wednesday as Thai Khin, of Stockton.
Khin was playing basketball at Unity Park with another teen when two suspects robbed his companion. The robbery escalated into a fight, and Khin was fatally shot while attempting to intervene.
The second victim, another junior at Cesar Chavez High School, was pistol-whipped and taken to a hospital. According to the police, the student is expected to survive. Both victims were juniors at the high school, confirmed Stockton Unified School District spokesperson Melinda Meza.
Police said on Thursday that the suspected attackers fled on foot and remain at large. No descriptions of the suspects or details about the stolen items have been provided.
Thai Khin's friend, Ezekiel Norasith, described him as kind, always smiling, and someone who had previously avoided fights, violence, or confrontations. Many people visited a small candle memorial at the park, reflecting on their memories of Khin.
A GoFundMe campaign has been created to help cover funeral expenses for Khin's family, describing him as a "loving son, brother, and friend with a bright future ahead of him."
In response to the shooting, Cesar Chavez High School was put on lockdown for about 15 minutes. Counselors, mental health clinicians, and social work assistants will be available on campus to support students and staff.
Residents living near Unity Park have reported previous instances of violence at the location. In response to community concerns, Stockton police announced they will be increasing their presence around the park to ensure safety.
