Community gathers at City Hall to remember the 11-year-old who dreamed of becoming a police officer

By Hayley Mattson and Camille DeVaul 

ATASCADERO — On Tuesday, April 23, community members gathered on the steps of Atascadero City Hall in front of the Rotunda building to honor the life and heroism of 11-year-old José Gutiérrez. The ceremony marked roughly one month since the tragic hit-and-run accident that took José’s life on March 14.

José was walking home from school along the 10800 block of El Camino Real when he was struck by a vehicle driven by 31-year-old Zachary Bernal of Atascadero. Witnesses reported seeing a gray Dodge Ram speeding away from the scene. Despite the quick response of emergency personnel, José succumbed to his injuries. 

The Atascadero Police Department launched an immediate and thorough investigation. Bernal, the registered owner of the Dodge Ram involved in the crash, was soon identified and taken into custody. He now faces multiple charges, including vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, felony hit-and-run resulting in death, and possession of fentanyl. 

But on Tuesday, the focus shifted from grief to gratitude, as the city came together to remember José — not just as a victim, but as a hero.

“As you all know, what brought us here today was a tragedy — an innocent boy struck down by a reckless, impaired driver while walking home from school,” said Atascadero Mayor Charles Bourbeau as he opened the ceremony. “While we can only attempt to fathom the depth of grief of Jose’s parents, siblings, families, and close friends, the entire community felt the sorrow of losing someone so young and innocent in such a horrible way. This is evident by the impromptu memorial set up at the site, which at one point had hundreds of candles, countless flowers, and other signs of support in memory of Jose.”

Bourbeau also expressed gratitude to those who rushed to the scene and the first responders who worked tirelessly in the wake of the tragedy: “I also want to thank the citizens who were first on the scene, our first responders and our police department for work working tirelessly through the headache, heartache, to quickly gather the evidence needed to make an arrest in the case.”

“One of the hardest things about policing is that officers are called to respond, no matter the danger,” the mayor continued. “In his final moments, José couldn’t save himself — but like a first responder, he did what he could to save others. That’s why we’re here today: to honor his bravery.”

José had dreams of becoming a police officer — dreams that became a central part of the tribute.

Atascadero Police Chief Dan Suttles then took the podium and presented José posthumously with the department’sHonorary Lifesaving Medal, an award typically reserved for officers who save lives in the line of duty.

“José had a dream of becoming a police officer,” Suttles said. “And in those final seconds, he acted in the spirit of that dream. He told his friend to move — and because of that, a life was saved. That’s heroism. That’s the kind of courage this medal represents.”

José’s aunt, Maria Contreras, accepted the medal on behalf of the family. She shared a message written by José’smother: “Thank you to everyone who has helped us and stood by us during this tragedy. José always said he wanted to grow up to be a police officer and help the community. Now, thanks to all of you, that dream is being honored. I am so proud of my son. With a mother’s heart, I thank you for making this dream come true. José couldn’t fulfill his dream here on earth, but I’m sure that in heaven, he is smiling down, proud and honored by all you have done. I wrote this with tears in my eyes and love in my heart. Thank you for all your support. Please, never forget my son, José Francisco Gutiérrez Coroso.”

The medal and plaque will be sent to Mexico, where José’s remains have been laid to rest. His family plans to incorporate the medal into his headstone as a permanent tribute to his life and legacy.

“This event has deeply impacted not just the family and the community, but our first responders as well,” said Suttles.“We’re trained to face emergencies — but nothing prepares us for the death of a child. Today gives us a moment to pause, to grieve, and to heal together.”

“This isn’t just a plaque or certificate,” Suttles added. “This is the very medal we present to our officers who save lives. That’s what José did — he saved a life. And we will never forget him.”

Feature Image: Maria Contreras, aunt of 11-year-old hit-and-run victim José Gutiérrez, holds the medal awarded to José while posing with members of the Atascadero Police Department during the April 23 ceremony honoring José. Photo by Rick Evans/ATN