Ontario teen killed in Covina massacre remembered

The youngest victim in the Christmas Eve shooting at a Covina house, where nine people died at the hands of a man dressed as Santa Claus, has been identified as an Ontario resident. Michael Ortiz was 17 and attended Ontario High.

Chris Romero, who coached Michael last year on the baseball team, said he was shocked to learn the news Monday afternoon.

"He was a good kid with good grades," Romero said. "This is tragic."

Romero said he knew Michael had taken advanced courses and "definitely was college bound."

Michael had made the varsity team last year and had played baseball for the Jaguars since he was a freshmen, he said.

Described as one of the best hitter's on the team, Romero said Michael was a player that consistently produced which he said was an indication of who he was in life.

"He was a natural leader and kids gravitate to that," he said.

With the school on break, Romero said he doesn't expect to address Michael's teammates until they return from the break until January 5.

"Very bright kid with a very bright future," he said.

The news of Michael's death had not been confirmed by officials at Ontario High School, said Mathew Holton, superintendent for Chaffey Joint Union High School District.

Holton said he had received a phone call from the school's principal, but said he was still trying to get in contact with the family.

In the past, whenever there has been a death in the district, Holton said extra psychologists, counselors and administrators have been made available at the school site.

"If this is indeed the case we will have resources available for the students," Holton said