Suspect Arrested In Deadly Soccer Assault

By Chris Wright, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- A 16 year old who was attacked after a soccer game has died.  Eduardo Ledesma passed away Monday morning, and another teen now faces murder charges.

Eduardo's soccer coach says Ledesma was a talented player and a wonderful kid who did not deserve to have his life end like this.

"It's a situation you hope you never face," said soccer coach Ryan Bush.

Ryan Bush coached Eddie Ledesma for the past three seasons.  In addition to playing for the Bixby High varsity team, Ledesma also played on Bush's club team in Sand Springs.

"He had a lot of potential. He would have gone on to play at the next level if he had wanted that opportunity," said soccer coach Ryan Bush.       

The avid soccer player was playing for a third squad, a church league team, when that potential was wiped out on Saturday.    

Tulsa Police say after the game wrapped up, Ledesma was suddenly attacked by a bystander.  He was punched several times in the head before his assailant took off.  Authorities say the attack left Ledesma brain-dead. He was taken off of life support Monday morning.

"Whole life in front of him.  It's just one of those tragic things that don't really know how to deal with and cope with at the time," said soccer coach Ryan Bush.

Tulsa Police believe another teen, 16-year-old Edgar Saucedo is responsible.

Bixby students say the two had argued at a Halloween party the night before.  Saucedo attends Memorial High, and that's where he was arrested Monday afternoon.    

"The loss of this young man from Bixby is a tragedy of unspeakable proportions, and our thoughts, prayer, we mourn with the family," said Tulsa Public Schools Superintendent  Keith Ballard.

Coach Bush says his team will have a tough time getting over the loss.  The squad practices year round, and without Ledesma, he says it won't be the same.

"It's not like a team, it's like family. We lost family today," said soccer coach Ryan Bush.

Saucedo is facing second degree murder charges.

The Bixby School District has set up a fund to help the Ledesma family with funeral expenses.  Anyone who wants to help can donate at any Citizens Security Bank.

Related story:

11/2/2008  Player Assaulted At Soccer Field