Campbell was discovered “unconscious and unresponsive” inside a gray 2012 Infiniti near the intersection of Givan and Palmer avenues shortly after 2 a.m. on Saturday, June 14. Authorities say he had been shot three times in the chest and was rushed to Jacobi Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
His family described the killing as a senseless act of violence. “This was the result of a senseless act of road rage,” his aunt wrote on a GoFundMe page created to help with funeral expenses.
On Monday, June 16, police arrested 20-year-old Michael Aracena in connection with the shooting. He has been charged with murder, manslaughter, and criminal possession of a weapon.
Campbell’s mother, Suzette Thomas, shared her heartbreak with the New York Daily News: “I would rather it had been me than him, because I know my son would have done amazing things in this world if given the chance. I’m so heartbroken.”
A Navy veteran with a disciplined spirit and ambitious goals, Campbell had dreams of working in security at the White House. “He always thought ahead because he wanted to make sure his family never struggled,” his mother added.
The GoFundMe tribute called Campbell “a kind and humble young man with a calm spirit and a bright future,” adding that he aspired to be a husband and father.
“His life was full of purpose. He loved deeply — his family, his country, and the future he envisioned,” his aunt wrote. “Our hearts are shattered. Keino wasn’t just my nephew — he was a light in our family. Smart, sweet, and deeply loved by all who knew him.”
Adding to the grief, the family revealed they have lost three relatives in the past three months. “The weight of this pain is unbearable,” the post continued. “Keino will never be forgotten. His memory will live on in our hearts, and this loss will forever mark our family.