Michael Reyna Obituary-Death News; 16-Year-Old Michael Reyna Passes Away In Fatal Shooting
A tragic and senseless act of violence has claimed the life of Michael Reyna, a 16-year-old boy from Hammond, who died after being shot Wednesday night in the 1000 block of 177th Street.
The Lake County Coroner’s Office officially identified Reyna on Friday and ruled his death a homicide following an autopsy, which confirmed the cause of death as a gunshot wound.
According to Hammond police, officers were dispatched to the scene shortly before 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday in response to reports of gunfire in the residential area. Upon arrival, they found the teenage victim, now identified as Reyna, suffering from at least one gunshot wound.
Emergency medical services were called, and Reyna was transported in critical condition to Community Hospital in Munster, where he later succumbed to his injuries despite life-saving efforts.
The Hammond community has been deeply shaken by the news of Michael Reyna’s death, as family, friends, and neighbors mourn the loss of a promising and potential-filled young life.
Described by those who knew him as bright, kind-hearted, and full of energy, Michael was a student, a son, a brother, and a friend whose future was stolen far too soon.
At just 16 years old, Michael was facing the ordinary difficulties of adolescence while also beginning to dream about his future—dreams that now remain unfulfilled.
Friends from school and members of his community have begun sharing tributes online, remembering Michael for his warm smile, his quick sense of humor, and his respectful, generous nature.
“He didn’t deserve this,” one classmate wrote. “He was a good kid, always looking out for others. This just isn’t fair.”
Another neighbor added, “Our hearts are broken. We watched Michael grow up in this neighborhood. He was polite, helpful, and always respectful. We are devastated.”
As of Friday, no arrests have been made in connection to the shooting, and police have not released any details regarding suspects or motives. However, the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Detectives are working diligently to follow all leads, interview witnesses, and gather surveillance footage from the area to piece together what led to the deadly shooting.
Authorities are now urging members of the public to come forward with any information, no matter how small it may seem. Anyone who may have seen suspicious activity or has knowledge about the events leading up to the shooting is asked to contact Hammond Police Detective Sgt. Jason Schafbuch at 219-852-6399.
As the investigation continues, the Reyna family and the greater Hammond community are left to grieve a young life taken far too soon. A candlelight vigil is expected to be organized in the coming days to honor Michael’s memory and call for an end to the violence that continues to plague communities across the country.
Michael Reyna’s name now joins the long list of young victims lost to gun violence—a heartbreaking reminder of the urgent need for solutions, accountability, and healing.
