20 years later, murder case of San Francisco teen remains unsolved
Family members and supporters gathered to remember Aubrey Abrakasa Jr., marking 20 years since his killing
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Family members and supporters gathered Friday to remember Aubrey Abrakasa Jr. at the intersection of Grove and Baker Streets, marking 20 years since his killing and renewing calls for information in a case that remains unsolved.
The memorial was held at the same corner where Abrakasa, 17, was killed two decades ago.
"I feel I'm still a little numb to it," said Paulette Brown, Abrakasa's mother.
Brown said her son was shot 30 times at 3:14 p.m. on Aug. 14, 2006.
She said her understanding is that gang members were in the area and that Abrakasa warned others to run.
She says with all the apartment buildings there, someone must have seen something.
"They call him a hero. He is a hero today and that day that he saved the families around this block because he hollered out," Brown said.
No arrests have been made in the case.
His case is technically cold, but not for his family.
RELATED: SFPD, mother of 2006 cold case murder victim hope reward will bring new leads
Each year, relatives and community members hold a memorial in his honor and in remembrance of other victims of unsolved crimes in San Francisco.
"I appreciate this event every year because it's a breath of fresh air. It's a reassurance when everybody can come out and just let the community know why we're doing this," said Pearl Brown, Abrakasa's sister.
The San Francisco District Attorney's Office said some cold cases can be solved through forensic evidence, while others rely on witnesses coming forward.
"Relationships change. Circumstances change. And, we just hope that with the passage of time and pleas like we're hearing today, people will find it in their heart to do the right thing," said Stacie Pettigrew with the district attorney's office.
San Francisco Police Chief Derrick Lew said the family's advocacy helped expand eligibility for reward money in cold cases.
Authorities are offering up to $250,000 for information in Abrakasa's case that leads to an arrest. "To close it we need the community's help. It's never too late for justice. It's never too late for someone to come forward with what they know," Lew said.
For Brown, the annual memorial remains both a tribute and a commitment. "I will continue to do this every year. Every year while I'm alive," she said.
Anyone with information about this or any other homicide case is asked to contact SFPD Homicide Detail.
You may also call our anonymous tip line at 1-415-575-4444 or Text-A-Tip to TIP411, beginning your message with "SFPD."
