Community Car Wash Raises Money, Toddler Remembered

Two-year-old Elijah Banuelos fell victim to a drive-by shooting on Wednesday at the Rancho Mariposa Community in Coachella, leaving his family members with only his memory.

“We love him. He was so the (most) precious thing we ever had,” his sister Jazleen Banuelos said.

“He was a very happy baby, outgoing, happy-go-lucky,” his cousin Juanita Chavez said.

“Definitely he likes chocolate,” Banuelos said.

Police say a car stopped in front of the garage and someone inside opened fire. Shots hit the toddler in the head. The Coachella Police and Sheriff’s Department have not released a description of the suspects or vehicle involved.

A family’s plea for information, “I know someone out there knows something. And he deserves justice,” one family member said.

About 40 family members and friends gathered at Competition Tires in Indio for the car wash — which was all donations.

“For the funeral, for the cost. It’s really high and we need all the help we can get,” family friend Margaret Baker said.

“Hopefully we’ll get a really good turn out, and everything can be taken care of by the end of the day,” Chavez said.

“Right now it’s tough times, but we’re doing the best we can to gather up and help out,” Baker added.

Halfway through the carwash — the Banuelos’ already raised seventeen hundred dollars.

“It’s overwhelming. It’s been a hard week for me, but we’re getting through,” Chavez said.

Elijah’s older sister continues to remember her baby brother.

“He’s in our hearts,” Banuelos said.

Elijah’s dad didn’t want to go on camera, but he wished to thank the community for their support and prayers.

Call Valley Crimestoppers at 760 341-STOP if you know anything about this crime.

You can remain anonymous and could receive up to a thousand dollar reward.