On April 1, 2024, in Jacksonville, Texas, 15-year-old Daniel V. Benitez was fatally shot around 10:20 p.m. on the 2000 block of South Jackson Street. Daniel and his 17-year-old brother, Jesus V. Benitez, were both struck; both were taken to local hospitals and Daniel later died. Jesus was initially reported in critical condition.

Law enforcement opened an immediate investigation. A 15-year-old suspect was arrested shortly after the shooting and charged with murder; because the suspect is a juvenile, the name has not been released. Subsequent arrests included 19-year-old Octavio Abundes and 18-year-old Alex Patricio, each charged with murder and related counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon; Patricio also faces a tampering with evidence charge. The Jacksonville Police Department, assisted by the Texas Rangers, is handling the investigation.

Daniel’s family and community have expressed deep grief. A cousin organized a GoFundMe describing him as an amazing son and brother who had a heart of gold; his obituary noted his kind nature and the joy he brought to others. Does anyone with information about the shooting or the people involved have details that could help the investigation?