AUSTIN -- At Manchaca Fire Rescue, you won't find Brandon Dominguez's name on any gear or staff list. Still, his death has officers mourning the loss of one of their own.
"He reminded me of me at that age," said Lieutenant Eddie Dominguez, who fought back tears describing his time working with the 17-year-old. While they were not related, they shared a common bond.
"His passion to become a firefighter was great," said Dominguez. "He would do whatever it would take to accomplish that goal."
It was a goal cut short in a shooting early Sunday morning. Dominguez and his two brothers were chasing two car burglars when one turned, firing a fatal shot.
Firefighting wasn't Dominguez's only passion. Monday at Akins High School, flags flew at half staff for the junior who was also a star on the junior varsity football team. Support from classmates has poured onto Facebook. In just two days, more than 600 people joined a group to remember Dominguez.
A former teacher wrote, "Brandon always was concerned for how his classmates were feeling and tried very hard to cheer up anyone feeling down."
His hard work ethic and will to succeed showed in all he did. Manchaca firefighters will honor Dominguez's legacy by burying him with full firefighting honors.
The 16-year-old male charged in Dominguez's death remains in Gardner Betts Juvenile Center. He's joined by a 15-year-old charged with unlawful carrying of a weapon. Those close to the family say they know at least one of the suspects.
An account has been set up in Brandon Dominguez's name at all Chase Banks. All donations will go to helping the family pay for his funeral.
