Huntington, WV — A wave of heartbreak has swept through the city of Huntington following the tragic killing of Gabriel Zazueta, a 20-year-old resident whose life was cut short in a violent incident over the weekend. The Huntington Police Department has launched an active homicide investigation after responding to a distress call on the 1100 block of 4th Avenue late Saturday evening.
Officers arrived on the scene to find Zazueta gravely injured. Despite emergency responders’ efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after. His death has shaken the Huntington community — leaving loved ones and neighbors reeling from the sudden and senseless loss.
“Gabriel was so young,” one community member shared tearfully. “He had dreams, a future. He didn’t deserve this.”
Police have not yet released specific details about the circumstances of the incident, citing the early stages of the investigation. Detectives and forensic teams are working diligently to piece together what led to the deadly encounter. At this time, authorities believe the event was isolated and do not consider there to be an ongoing threat to public safety.
Still, the silence left behind is deafening — and the lack of immediate answers only compounds the grief for Gabriel’s family and friends. Many have taken to social media to express their sorrow, describe Gabriel’s kind-hearted spirit, and share memories of a young man whose life had just begun to unfold.
The Huntington Police Department is urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Even the smallest detail could help bring clarity and accountability in this heartbreaking case. Tips can be submitted by calling 304-696-4444, and all information will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
As the investigation continues, Huntington stands united in grief. Candlelight vigils are already being planned to honor Gabriel’s memory, and calls for peace and justice echo throughout the community.
“We shouldn’t have to bury our young,” said one resident at a growing memorial near the scene. “We need justice. And we need healing.”
Rest in peace, Gabriel Zazueta.
Your life mattered. You are deeply missed, and you will never be forgotten.
