Organ donations from 13-year-old Queens boy shot en route to school have successfully saved four lives.

A 13-year-old boy from Queens, who tragically lost his life due to a shooting incident while en route to school, has become an organ donor, enabling the lives of four individuals to be saved. This decision was made by the family of Sanjay Samuel, who succumbed to his injuries following a gunshot wound.

Sanjay’s heart was transplanted into a 13-year-old boy, while a 15-year-old received his liver. Additionally, two adults in their 50s received his lungs, pancreas, and a kidney. These transplants are significant as they contribute to the ongoing efforts to address the critical shortage of organ donors in the United States.

Leonard Achan, President and CEO of LiveOnNY, expressed admiration for the family’s selfless decision to donate Sanjay’s organs, recognizing their generosity during such a painful time. LiveOnNY is a prominent nonprofit organization that coordinates organ donations in the New York City area. Achan emphasized the importance of Sanjay’s contributions, stating that he became an “organ donor hero” by extending the gift of life to those in desperate need.

Following the tragic incident on September 22, 2025, at a Dunkin’ Donuts location near Springfield and Linden Boulevards in Cambria Heights, the boy was declared dead at Cohen Children’s Medical Center. To facilitate organ harvesting, he remained on a ventilator after being pronounced deceased.

In a parallel development, the individual believed to be responsible for Sanjay’s death, a 16-year-old boy, has been taken into custody and is currently being held without bail. He surrendered to authorities after a search, and was charged with murder following the incident, which police believe was gang-related. Reports indicate that the assailant approached Sanjay on a Razor scooter and violently attacked him before firing a shot to the back of his head.

The incidents that led to Sanjay’s fatal shooting have sparked discussions about youth violence and gang activity in urban areas, underscoring a growing concern among community leaders and law enforcement. The organ donation resulting from this tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the potential for life to continue even in the face of unimaginable loss, highlighting the critical need for donors in the medical community.

This case has captured significant media attention, emphasizing the impact of violence on communities and the importance of organ donation awareness. As discussions on these issues continue, the hope remains that such tragedies can be mitigated in the future through community engagement and preventive measures.

Media News Source