Adrian Carter Obituary: In Loving Memory of 16-Year-Old Taken Too Soon in West Sacramento Retaliatory Shooting

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. — With profound sadness and heavy hearts, the community of West Sacramento mourns the tragic and untimely death of Adrian Carter, a bright and beloved 16-year-old boy whose life was senselessly cut short in what authorities are calling a retaliatory shooting. Adrian passed away on Wednesday, May 1, 2025, at Summerfield Park, a place once filled with joy that has now become the center of heartbreak.

Adrian was more than just a statistic—he was a son, a friend, a student, and a young man with dreams, potential, and a future ahead of him. Known for his gentle spirit, radiant smile, and compassionate heart, Adrian touched everyone he encountered with his kindness and authenticity. Family members and friends recall his ability to light up a room with his presence and his unwavering loyalty to those he loved.

According to West Sacramento Police, Adrian was the victim of a deadly shooting believed to be linked to a botched marijuana-related drug deal. The suspect in his killing, 21-year-old Adrek Miramontes, was arrested by police and is currently facing charges in connection to the incident. Authorities say that just days later, a second shooting occurred on the very same street—an act believed to be in retaliation for Adrian’s death. A 16-year-old West Sacramento teen was critically injured in that second shooting, escalating community fears and bringing renewed urgency to address youth violence in the area.

Adrian’s tragic death has left his family in deep grief and the community searching for answers. Kristien Kilpatrick, a longtime family friend, described Adrian through tears: “I’m so numb out of my body to where one of the best kids in the world was taken—and he didn’t deserve it. He had a bright future ahead of him and was loved by so many people.”

At Summerfield Park, where the shooting occurred, a growing memorial now stands in Adrian’s memory. Friends, classmates, and neighbors have been leaving flowers, notes, candles, and stuffed animals—a tribute to a young life taken too soon. Among them was 16-year-old Ambreyel Evans, who expressed disbelief over Adrian’s passing. “It was shocking because he is sweet and not like that. That’s not the type of person he was.”

The tragedy has ignited strong emotions across the community. Many residents have voiced concerns about the easy access to firearms among youth and the increasing frequency of violent encounters. “High school teenagers having access to guns, and then drugs being involved—it’s just too much,” said local resident Daryl Freeman. “Two lives are now lost. For what? Two young guys who had a whole life ahead of them to do wonderful things.”

In response, West Sacramento Mayor Martha Guerrero released a heartfelt statement:
“Our hearts are heavy following the tragic shooting of a 16-year-old in our community. Preventing gun violence has been a top priority, and this heartbreaking incident reinforces the urgency of our collective work to ensure safety for all—especially our youth.”

She commended the swift action of the West Sacramento Police Department and emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration through the Yolo County Gun Violence Prevention Collaborative.

Adrian’s death has become a painful reminder of the fragile nature of life and the devastating consequences of violence. As the investigation into the shootings continues, Adrian’s family and friends are calling for peace and justice—not just for Adrian, but for every young life in the community.

Funeral arrangements for Adrian Carter are currently being finalized, and the family is expected to share details with the public in the coming days. In the meantime, community members are encouraged to keep the Carter family in their thoughts and prayers and to support initiatives that seek to curb youth violence and provide positive pathways for young people.

Rest in peace, Adrian. Your light will never be forgotten, and your name will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved you.