Following the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14 , 2012 , Cruz honored one of the victims , Jack Pinto , age 6 . Pinto was a fan of Cruz , who wore a tribute on his shoes in the game against the Atlanta Falcons two days after the massacre . In permanent marker , one shoe read " R.I.P. Jack Pinto " and the other " Jack Pinto My Hero . " On December 19 , 2012 , he visited the Pinto family in Newtown , saying , " I felt like it was only right that I pay my respects to him and be as comforting to that family as much as I can . " Cruz gave the cleats and gloves he wore in the Falcons ' game to Pinto 's brother , Ben
shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School
Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting
Victor Cruz (American football)