In Loving Memory of Mateo Renato Banegas New Castle, Delaware — July 22, 2025
The community of New Castle is mourning the tragic and untimely loss of 18-year-old Mateo Renato Banegas, who was fatally shot on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The incident occurred around 3:58 p.m. in the vicinity of Wilton Boulevard and Stonebridge Boulevard, a usually quiet intersection that has now become the center of a devastating tragedy.
Officers from the New Castle County Division of Police were dispatched to the area following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they discovered Mateo suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. First responders immediately administered life-saving measures, and Emergency Medical Services rushed him to a nearby hospital in hopes of saving the young man’s life. Tragically, despite their best efforts, Mateo succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.
Mateo Renato Banegas was a vibrant young man whose life was just beginning. Described by friends, teachers, and family as kind-hearted, respectful, and full of promise, Mateo had a bright future ahead of him. He was a recent high school graduate, with aspirations of attending college and pursuing a career that would allow him to give back to his community. He loved music, sports, and spending time with his family, especially his younger siblings, whom he adored and protected fiercely.
His unexpected death has sent shockwaves throughout the New Castle community. Vigils have begun to form in his memory, with candles, flowers, and heartfelt messages left at the scene. Mateo’s family, now grappling with an unimaginable loss, has asked for privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking time. They have expressed their profound grief and are leaning on one another, and the support of loved ones, as they begin the long road toward healing.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing. Detectives from the New Castle County Division of Police’s Criminal Investigations Unit continue to pursue leads to determine what led to this senseless act of violence. At this time, no arrests have been made, and authorities are urging anyone with information that could assist in the investigation to come forward.
Detective Matthew Donovan is leading the investigation and can be contacted directly at (302) 395-2781 or via email at matthew.donovan@newcastlede.gov. Tips can also be submitted through the Division’s non-emergency number at (302) 573-2800. Callers may remain anonymous.
Mateo’s death is not just a statistic—it is a heartbreaking reminder of the preciousness of life and the urgency to address the root causes of violence within our communities. His family and community are now left with memories, photos, and the echoes of a young life taken far too soon.
In Mateo’s honor, his loved ones are calling for peace, justice, and unity. Plans for a memorial service and a community gathering to celebrate his life will be announced in the coming days. A fund is also being established to help cover funeral expenses and support the Banegas family through this difficult time.
Mateo Renato Banegas, 18, of New Castle, Delaware—gone too soon, but forever remembered. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may justice be served swiftly.