A 20-year-old San Francisco State University student fatally shot as he got off a train in San Francisco was identified Thursday as former Garden Grove High School swimmer.
Justin Valdez was fatally shot Monday about 9:50 p.m. in what police said appeared to be an unprovoked attack at Randolph and Bright streets.
Nikhom Thephakaysone, 30, was arrested Tuesday and booked on suspicion of murder, according to San Francisco police.
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The principal at Garden Grove High School, Steve Osborne, remembered Valdez for starting "Lights Out Wednesday" on the campus to save energy. He was swimmer and water polo player, the Orange County Register reported.
Valdez's former swimming coach Eric Henninger recalled how, as a senior, Valdez, the team captain, came from behind to win the Garden Grove League title in the 200-yard freestyle.
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"That race just defines him," he told the newspaper. "That's just heart. He's the hardest worker."
A vigil is set for 7 p.m. Friday on the pool deck at the high school. Because Valdez was involved in recycling, organizers asked friends to bring something to recycle. Another gathering will be held at the school pool Sunday at 5:30 p.m.
—City News Service.
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