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Alex Leon, 18, of Peekskill, was severely injured on Saturday, Nov. 28, attempting to defend and protect his friend Joaquin Salazar who died from his injuries.
Leon, who is the son of Franki Leon, the owner of Franki's Grill in Croton on Hudson, was also stabbed. He underwent four hours of surgery and is currently slowly recovering at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, according to a GoFundMe page.
The fund, started by Rebecca Boivin and other community members and friends of the family, is attempting to raise money to "help Alex get his life back."
"We watched Franki’s son Alex grow up. In middle school and high school Alex helped out at the shop and we got to know him," the group said. "He and Joaquin would run in and grab a sandwich and several drinks each, on their way to or from soccer games—their passion and joy."
According to Peekskill Police Chief Donald Halmy, the stabbings stemmed from an incident in which a group of individuals met up in the parking lot of China Pier in Peekskill around 9:15 p.m.
An altercation broke out among the group and during the melee the two men were stabbed by the 17-year-old, who was also injured in the fight, Halmy said.
Joaquin Salazar, who died during the fight, was a well-known star soccer player in the area.
The suspect has been charged with second-degree murder and assault in the case.
To donate to help Alex Leon, click here.
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