Heartbreaking Shooting at Fresno Barbershop Leaves Father Dead, Two Others Injured
A shooting at a Fresno barbershop on the eve of Easter has left a family devastated. The tragic incident occurred at Los Viejones Barber Shop located at Elmont and Van Ness just after 5 p.m. on Saturday. Jampier Quintero, a 44-year-old father, was with his two young sons, ages 5 and 11, to get haircuts before Easter. However, their visit turned into a nightmare when they were caught in the crossfire of a gunman who opened fire inside the shop.
A Father’s Last Act of Protection
According to Gabriela Quintero, Jampier’s wife, her husband’s final act was one of bravery and love for his children. As the gunman began shooting, Jampier stepped in front of his sons to shield them from harm. He took the fatal bullet, dying in the process. Gabriela, still in shock from the incident, described her husband as a protector, a man who always said he would give his life for his family, and that’s exactly what he did.
Jampier’s children witnessed the horrifying scene, with their youngest son falling to his knees upon seeing his father lying lifeless on the floor. Gabriela described the immense trauma her family has endured, not just from the loss of their father, but from the violent way he was taken from them.
The Shooter and Victims
The shooting involved three victims, with Jampier Quintero being the most critically injured. In addition to him, two other people, a 20-year-old and a 17-year-old, were also shot during the incident. Police believe the two young men were the intended targets of the gunman. Reports suggest that the assailant was in the barber’s chair, receiving a haircut, when he suddenly pulled out a weapon and started shooting through the cape covering his chest.
After opening fire inside the barbershop, the shooter fled the scene on foot, continuing to shoot at the victims in the parking lot outside. Tragically, Jampier and his sons were in the wrong place at the wrong time, standing just outside the shop when the bullets rang out.
Community Reactions
The Quintero family had only recently immigrated to the United States from Venezuela, seeking asylum and a better life. Their neighbor, Nancy, shared how deeply this tragedy has impacted the local community. She spoke about how the Quinteros had been an exemplary family, showcasing what many hope to see in immigrants. According to Nancy, Jampier was a hard worker, a caring father, and someone who was always giving back to his community.
The tragedy has rippled through the community, where the loss of Jampier is deeply felt. Gabriela spoke with grace despite her grief, remembering her husband as a loving father and a man of God. She also expressed forgiveness for the shooter, echoing her husband’s values. “I don’t feel hate towards that person,” Gabriela said. “My husband was a man that would say that each person deserves to be forgiven, and I hope God forgives that person.”
Investigation and Ongoing Search
The police have launched an investigation into the incident, though they have yet to confirm whether the shooting was gang-related. What they have made clear is that Jampier Quintero had no known gang ties. Authorities are currently searching for the suspect, described as a man in his early 20s with dark hair. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation.
As the search for the shooter continues, the family has set up a GoFundMe page to help with funeral and other expenses. The link to the GoFundMe page can be found on the ABC30 website.
A Community in Mourning
This tragic event has left a lasting impact on the Fresno community. Jampier Quintero’s death is not only a loss to his family but also to the broader community he was a part of. The circumstances surrounding his death highlight the randomness of violence and the importance of standing together in the face of tragedy.
As the investigation unfolds, one thing remains clear—the love and devotion Jampier had for his family. He will be remembered not just for the way he lived, but for the way he died—protecting those he loved most.