Stephanie Castro wants son’s killer to face justice for DeSoto County fair shooting

Reporter: Zach Oliveri Writer: Paul Dolan
Published: Updated:

A grieving mother is desperate to find her teenage son’s killer. 17-year-old Danny Rodriguez Lopez was shot at the DeSoto County fair, and whoever did it is still on the run.

The fair gates are open, and soon the people who run the show will offer a moment of silence for Daniel and his family.

DeSoto County fair gates open. CREDIT: WINK News

Understandably, it has been a rough few days for Stephanie Castro, Daniel’s mother. Sadly, she never got the chance to say goodbye to her son.

17-year-old Daniel was murdered, shot in the chest, at the DeSoto County fair Saturday night.

“My life has changed my kid’s life has changed. And I’m sure anyone who’s met my son their life will be changed,” Castro said.

Castro told WINK News her son was like most boys. Daniel liked to play basketball and go fishing. And his mom explained Daniel’s outgoing nature and ability to share his joy and smile with others made him special.

“He was the kid you put in the room to make anyone laugh. He was the kid that made anyone feel okay,” Castro said.

Arcadia Police van. CREDIT: WINK News

The county fair shooting sent people running frantically to the exits. Arcadia police said they have a suspect, someone who knew Danny, but that person is on the run.

“He told me he was going to the fair but that he reassured me that he would be back,” Castro said. “And he never came back…”

On Tuesday, the fair reopened its gates with the promise of increased security.

Castro said she hopes someone steps up and tells detectives where her son’s killer is hiding.

“My son needs justice. He needs justice. I need justice. I need the closure because, in reality, it’s not fair for me or my children, or my son for what we are going through,” Castro said.

Castro knows her son made a difference during his 17 years. She explained that she’s okay with the fair reopening on Tuesday as long as everyone is safe.

Copyright ©2024 Fort Myers Broadcasting. All rights reserved.

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without prior written consent.