On the evening of January 8, 2017, Manuel Rodriguez, a 28-year-old Hispanic father, was shot and killed outside his family’s home at the Santa Monica Apartments in Houston while unloading groceries with his wife and three children. An armed person approached intending to commit a robbery, and the confrontation ended with Manuel fatally shot in front of his family.

Manuel is described as a devoted husband and father who worked long hours to provide for his children and was known in the neighborhood for kindness and helping others. The killing prompted vigils and community concern about safety at the complex, with residents raising issues about lighting, surveillance, and security patrols.

No arrests or suspect identifications have been made public.