Latin America Roots Teen Remains Hospitalized After Taking Bullets To Save Others From Florida Shooter

News Americas, FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, Tues. Feb. 20, 2018: A 15-year-old Latin America-roots immigrant and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High remains in a Broward County hospital, six days after he used his body as a human shield to save many in his class.

Anthony Borges, whose roots extend to Venezuela, has a long road to recovery. He was shot five times by deranged 19-year-old gunman, Nickolas Cruz after he essentially used his body as a human shield to protect 19 other classmates.

As his fellow classmate, Carlos Rodriguez told ABC News, when none in the class knew what to do as gunshots rang out, Anthony stepped up and ensured some 19 other students made it back safely into a classroom and then tried to lock the door.

That’s when Cruz shot him. He was hit in both legs and in his back. One bullet went through his back while his left upper thigh bone was shattered. His father, Roger Borges, told ABC, that several arteries in one of Anthony’s leg was destroyed by the bullets Cruz sprayed.

For now, many are calling Anthony a hero, including Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel who visited Anthony Sunday in the hospital. The soccer player’s family is now raising money to help with hospital costs and future surgeries on Gofundme. The family has so far raised over $200,000.

While Borges has survived, another Latin American teen, Joaquin “Guac” Oliver, from Venezuela, was among the 17 victims of the school massacre. In the Spanish-language service, the mourners were urged to celebrate Joaquin’s life. “Viva Joaquin!” the celebrant cried, as the crowd erupted in cheers and applause. He was laid to rest Saturday at The Gardens of Boca Raton cemetery.