A 24-year-old man was fatally shot in the head while defending his sister from her ex-boyfriend in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania.
The shooting of Kenito Montoya has sparked a manhunt for the suspected shooter, 31-year-old Yeicop Menjivar, also known as Yieco Menjivar Pacheco.
Authorities have issued a warning, describing Menjivar as armed and dangerous and urging the public to call 911 if he is spotted.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, February 4, at a residence on Kent Road in Upper Darby Township, Delaware County, about 30 minutes west of Philadelphia. Menjivar, determined to confront Montoya’s sister, forced his way into the home. The situation quickly escalated from a heated argument to a violent confrontation in the basement, where Montoya was shot in the head.
Following the shooting, Montoya was rushed to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center where he remained on life support. However, on Tuesday, February 6, the family decided to take him off life support and donated his organs.
In response to the killing, the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office has filed formal murder charges against Menjivar. The suspect, last seen operating a distinctive blue and black Honda Civic, with Pennsylvania tags LWH4182, remains at large. The Upper Darby Police Department has provided specific details of Menjivar’s vehicle to aid in his capture.
Montoya, a devoted uncle and native of Honduras, is remembered by his family for his humility and sociable nature. His father, in an expression of profound grief and pride, told reporters, “He saved her. He died a hero.”
“Her refusal to be with him led the assassin to her home,” Montoya’s father said. He alluded to Menjivar, calling him an “assassin.”
“If there’s a family member of his hiding him, please turn him in to the police,” the family said.
Authorities are urging anyone with information on Menjivar’s whereabouts to come forward and help with the investigations.