Somers community comes together in support after shocking murder

Several hundred members of the Somers community gathered at Reis Park Saturday evening to mourn, comfort one another and remember 15-year-old Michael Raimondi, who was killed in a domestic violence incident last week.

Family, friends and teachers of Raimondi, a sophomore at Somers High School, gathered to remember the life, his love of cars and the unique quirks that made him a beloved member of the community. Many people present held small candles in their hands during the half-hour vigil.

Somers High School teachers Doreen Stoecker and Anne McGuire remembered Raimondi being a joy to be around, even when he playfully teased him or tried to distract him from his schoolwork. They also noted that not only did he love cars, but he was thrilled that he could take an automotive course as a junior and work on cars at BOCES.

“Michael’s smile lit up a room,” Stoecker said. “His big cheeks and the twinkle in his eyes melted those who worked with him, and his beaming face made it difficult for us to blame him. His silliness and laughter were contagious. He was mischievous in a way that made us all laugh but was never deceptive.”

Raimondi died late on October 28 after his mother's boyfriend, Fernando Jimenez, allegedly shot Raimondi, the boy's mother, Christina Raimondi, 39, and his 13-year-old brother Matthew at their home in the Baldwin Place section of Somers. reported the state police.

Jimenez was arrested by police the next morning in Putnam Valley and is being held without bail in the Westchester County Jail on charges of second-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder and second-degree possession of a weapon. He was scheduled to appear in Somers Town Court on Monday.

Michael died at the scene, while his mother and brother, an eighth-grader at Somers Middle School, remained hospitalized in critical condition as of Saturday, Christina's cousin Lenny Yee said.

Multiple reports say Jimenez is Chilean and was in the United States illegally after being deported 20 years ago. It is not known when he re-entered the country.

One of Michael's cousins, Angela, remembered him as a cheerful, fun-loving boy who often smiled and laughed and made sure everyone was happy.

“He was such a sweet and innocent little boy and everyone who knew him remembers him as the person who always brought us joy,” she said. “We watched him grow from a little boy into a young adult, and during those growing years everyone noticed how much joy he brought us, and that sweet smile always lit up a room, even on the darkest days.”

Somers Warden Robert Scorrano said he was proud of how residents pulled together in the face of the unimaginable tragedy and prayed for the family, including Christine Raimondi and Matthew, whose EMTs helped with the rescue.

“This city is proud of our first responders who saved the lives of two people, and we are very grateful for their efforts,” Scorrano said. “Together with them, our school officials acted quickly to ensure our children returned home safely, and they continue to receive incredible support during this difficult time, and I am proud of each of you, our community, for the strength, the compassion and the support you have shown the Raimondi family and each other.”

Another teacher, Mike Locko, recalled how Raimondi loved origami and Legos and had a fertile imagination. He said he was able to take almost anything apart and put it back together.

“In memory of Michael, let us also celebrate his life,” Locko said. “Let us honor his memory by living with kindness and joy of life. Let us carry on his legacy by embracing his passions and pursuing our dreams, and let us never forget the special bond we share, Michael. You will always be in my heart and in all of our hearts.”

Yee fought back tears as he spoke of how grateful he and his family were for the community's unwavering support. Through faith and prayers, the family is trying to overcome the most difficult time of their lives, he said.

“They lifted our spirits and showed us that we are not alone,” Yee said. “The love and generosity you have given us will stay with us forever. Thank you for helping us honor Michael’s memory in this beautiful way.”

He also urged the crowd to seek help if they or anyone they know notice possible signs of domestic violence. However, Yee mentioned that he and other family members did not see or notice any problems.

“There are people who want to help and there are resources available and no one should have to face these challenges in silence, and reaching out can make all the difference,” Yee said.

According to a published report, Christine Raimondi and Jimenez dated on and off for several years, but there were no previous signs or incidents of domestic violence. He went to her apartment last Monday night, where Jimenez punched her in the face, she said in a statement to police.

Then she remembered hearing the sound of gunfire and rushed to protect her children.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to cover medical care, funeral arrangements and therapy for the family. As of Monday morning, the total raised was over $160,000. To donate, visit us