Tampa, Fla. — The Hillsborough County community remains in shock following the tragic death of 19-year-old Arnold Gutierrez, who was fatally stabbed last Sunday at a local apartment complex. The incident, which police say involves a 24-year-old suspect named Michael Aldana, has left Gutierrez’s family and friends grappling with grief and unanswered questions.
Gutierrez’s death occurred at the Northgreen at Carrollwood Apartments, where he reportedly went to assist two friends feeling unsafe due to Aldana’s presence. The situation escalated, leading to Gutierrez being stabbed multiple times as he tried to leave the scene.
Virginia Rosa, Gutierrez’s mother, described her son as a dedicated friend who frequently opened their home to his peers, ensuring they always had a place to stay. “Arnold was passionate about fishing, but even more passionate about his friends. He was their safe harbor,” Rosa explained, her voice heavy with sorrow.
Elena, Arnold’s sister, added that her brother was asleep at home when a distressing middle-of-the-night call from a friend led him to the apartment complex. She believes the tragedy might have been avoided if the police were called initially. “I do believe he would be alive if they had called the police to begin with. But my brother, just trying to be a good friend, he went there,” she said tearfully.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, there was an altercation at the apartment which directly preceded the stabbing. Aldana has since been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection to Gutierrez’s death.
At the hospital, the tragic reality hit the family hard as they learned about the multiple stab wounds Arnold suffered. “We weren’t prepared for a 19-year-old to be murdered, the way that he was, to the extent that he was,” Elena expressed, signifying the profound grief the unexpected violence brought upon them.
The financial strain of an unplanned funeral further compounds their sorrow. With arrangements still uncertain, Elena highlighted the practical challenges they now face. “We don’t even have a funeral home confirmed or a cemetery confirmed. It’s all up in the air,” she shared.
Despite their deep loss, Arnold’s family made a poignant decision to donate his eyes, hoping to grant someone else the gift of sight. “They told me someone needs eyes. I wanted to say no, but I want to see those eyes again. And I will know, that’s my son’s eyes,” Rosa remarked, finding some solace in this act of giving.
As the investigation into Arnold Gutierrez’s death continues, his family is adamant that all individuals involved be held accountable. They appeal for justice and transparency, awaiting closure in their time of profound tragedy.
The community meanwhile stands by the family, offering support and echo their calls for thorough scrutiny and justice. Arnold Gutierrez’s untimely death has not only left a void among his loved ones but has also stirred concerns about youth safety and the necessity of swift, adequate responses to calls for help within the community.