Derek Jeter phones family of Sandy Hook victim
Victoria Soto became a household name last Friday after she was one of 26 people killed by a gunman at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Soto, who died protecting her students, has inspired many following her death. Apparently, that list includes Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter.
On Wednesday, the day Soto was buried, her younger sister Carlee tweeted: “Derek Jeter just called my mom! Thanks Vicki, she needs it. thank you @yankees this meant a lot to my mother and all of us.”
The Yankees confirmed that Jeter made the phone call but refused to divulge any more information about it. According to Soto’s cousin, James Wiltsie, none of the family reached out to the Yankees, meaning Jeter’s phone call was unprompted. Combined with the desire to keep his conversation with Soto’s family private, Jeter was clearly acting out of the kindness of his heart. His call occurred one day after New York Giants receiver Victor Cruz visited with the family of slain first-grader Jack Pinto.
In eulogies given at Soto’s funeral Wednesday, friends and family recalled her love of the Yankees, especially outfielder Brett Gardner.
Soto was just 27 years old. She leaves behind her parents, Carlos and Donna, two younger sisters, Jillian and Carlee, and a younger brother, Carlos.
