Jesus Valladares dies in fatal Racine shooting

Jesus Valladares dies in fatal Racine shooting

Fatal Racine shooting death of Jesus Valladares – Obituary

Jesus “Chucho” Valladares, an 11-year-old boy from Racine, Wisconsin, tragically died after being shot by his 16-year-old brother, Pedro Sauceda, inside their home on the night of May 16. Pedro now faces a charge of first-degree reckless homicide with a dangerous weapon.

The incident took place around 10:30 p.m. in the 2600 block of Prospect Street. Family members rushed Chucho to the hospital before police arrived, but he later succumbed to his injuries. A criminal complaint filed on May 21 identified Pedro as the individual who discharged the firearm.

When police arrived, Pedro reportedly begged them to end his life, ignoring commands before being restrained. Investigators believe the weapon was fired at close range, citing burn marks and a dark ring around the entry wound on Chucho’s shirt.

According to statements made by their grandmother, she heard the gunshot from another room and found Pedro holding the firearm while Chucho lay on the floor, barely breathing. Other witnesses confirmed hearing the gunfire and seeing Chucho wounded.

Pedro told authorities the shooting was unintentional. He said Chucho tried to take the gun from him because he wasn’t supposed to have it, and the gun discharged during the struggle. Pedro also admitted he may have been pretending to put the gun to his own head when Chucho intervened.

Pedro’s sister revealed to investigators that the brothers had frequently “play fought” with the firearm—more than 50 times—under the belief it was unloaded. She said she had placed a single bullet in it earlier that day for a visit to a cemetery and later disposed of the weapon in a river after the shooting.

Pedro appeared in court on May 21, where his bond was set at $150,000. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 28 at 8:30 a.m.

Chucho is remembered by his family for his joyful spirit and willingness to help, especially after the recent loss of his grandfather. A GoFundMe has been set up to assist with funeral costs. In response to the tragedy, Racine Alderman Henry Perez has announced plans to start a youth gun safety initiative later this year.