Mother hopes anniversary of son’s death brings justice
A Colorado Springs mother said Sunday served as a day to remember her murdered son and remind the public that her son’s killers have not been brought to justice.
According to Colorado Springs police, on May 24, 1997, Steven “Gino” Romero, 13, rode with three friends in a borrowed 1969 Chevrolet Impala. The car, owned by a gang member, who was not in the car at the time, was targeted by a rival gang. Twenty-eight bullets were shot into the car, striking and killing Gino.
Police saidSocorro Anselmo Gutierrez andVinnicio Rafeal Martinez were wanted for the murder. Arrest warrants have been issued for both men, but they have never been found.
Jennifer Romero said the pain of losing her son has never faded. But as the years pass, memories of her son have started to slip away.
“They fade and you try to remember everything you possibly can on a day like this,” said Romero.
Every year she holds vigil for her son. This year, the vigil was held online because of the rain. Friends and family shared memories and pictures of Gino.
Romero said the support helps, but she can never find closure until her son’s killers are arrested.
“Every person that helps them and hides them and helps them to get away from the police or hide from us,” said Romero. “I hold them all guilty.”
Romero said she is getting older and time is running out to find answers.
“I am starting to age and I can die and not leave it for my son, and for my grandkids to have to deal with. We can close it with me and my husband and just get it done with so it’s over with and they can try to have a normal life,” said Romero.
Colorado Springs police released the following information about the suspects:
Socorro Anselmo Gutierrez, who was born Dec. 13, 1969 . He is described as a Hispanic male, 5-foot-7 tall with brown hair and hazel eyes.
Vinnicio Rafeal Martinez, who was born Nov. 13, 1973. He is described as a Hispanic male, 5-foot-10 tall with brown hair and brown eyes.
If anyone has information that could assist with locating these suspects please call the police department at (719) 444-7000 or call the Pikes Peak Area Crime Stoppers at (719) 634-STOP (7867). You do not have to give your name and could earn a cash reward.
