Soccer Coach Memo Garcia Dies after Nearly 9-Month Fight Following El Paso Mass Shooting

On August 3, 2019, a tragic mass shooting occurred at an El Paso Walmart where 22 people died. Guillermo "Memo" Garcia was one of the people injured in the shooting that recently passed on from his injuries.

Garcia, also known as “Tank,” was one of the last remaining victims of last year’s El Paso, Texas mass shooting. He had been hospitalized for almost nine months since the shooting.

According to the Del Sol Medical Center, Garcia finally succumbed to his injuries on Sunday, April 26, 2020. He was one of the coaches of the EP Fusion girls soccer team.

MOURNING GARCIA’S DEATH

In a statement, David Shimp, chief executive officer (CEO)for Del Sol Medical Center said: "Our hearts are heavy as we report Guillermo 'Memo' Garcia, our last remaining patient being treated from the El Paso shooting, has passed away." Shimp also had this to say about the coach:

"His courage, his strength and his story have touched many lives, including those of our caregivers, who tirelessly fought for him...”

HOW GARCIA WAS SHOT

The CEO further shared how they were grieving along with his family and community. Garcia’s soccer team, comprised of 20 girls in the “Under 12” division, was fundraising by selling snacks outside the Walmart store when a gunman opened fire.

MANY MORE WERE WOUNDED

Federal prosecutors later described the tragedy as a hate crime and an act of domestic terrorism targeting Latinos. Garcia was part of more than 27 men, women, and children that were wounded in the mass shooting.

MEMO’S WIFE WAS ALSO SHOT

His wife, Jessica Coca, was also injured after being shot in the leg but she survived. In a statement, she explained how her husband had passed away at 11:12 a.m.

A VIGIL WAS HELD FOR GARCIA

She revealed that a “proper memorial and mass” would be held for Garcia “When the [coronavirus] pandemic and social distancing orders pass.” A vigil was held for him at the parking lot located at 10175 Gateway Blvd West on Monday at 7:30 p.m.

El Paso Mayor Dee Margo also mourned Garcia’s passing in a tweet alongside his wife, Adair Margo.