Ernest Phillips, 49, known to some as Teddy, was shot and killed downtown in San Antonio on the evening of April 16, 2024. Investigators say an altercation near Austin and Lamar Streets escalated when Phillips tried to run; the other man chased him, produced a weapon and fired multiple rounds. Phillips was found with several gunshot wounds to his chest at about 6:45 p.m., taken to Brooke Army Medical Center and later pronounced dead.

Witnesses said two people pursued the shooter but could not catch him; the suspect was described as wearing black and possibly accompanied by a dog. More than a month of investigation led police to a suspect after a witness reported that Jose Alejo had confessed and claimed self-defense, saying Phillips was armed with a pipe. After reviewing evidence, investigators obtained probable cause to charge Alejo with murder.

On May 24, 2024, San Antonio police and U.S. Marshals located 36-year-old Jose Alejo at a gas station and took him into custody; he was booked into the Bexar County Adult Detention Center with combined bond set at $132,000 and the case was moving through the court system as of May 2024.

If anyone knew Ernest Phillips, his movements that night, or has information about the incident, please come forward.