On March 21, 2024, 19-year-old Eric Gilbert Garcia was fatally shot near a gas station in the 1600 block of 19th Street in Lubbock, Texas. Officers arrived after reports of shots fired at about 5:04 p.m.; Garcia was found with a gunshot wound, taken to University Medical Center, and later pronounced deceased. Preliminary investigation says he was involved in an altercation in the parking lot with another individual prior to the shooting. The suspect remained at the scene and was taken into custody; that person was booked into the Lubbock County Detention Center on unrelated charges. No formal charges related to Garcia’s death have been reported and the investigation is ongoing.

Eric Garcia was born June 7, 2004, in Lubbock to Valdomero Garcia and Michelle Davila. Family remembered him for his devotion to family, his interest in old-school cars, and spending time with loved ones. He is survived by his mother Michelle (Joe) Lara; brothers CJ, Jeremiah, and Sonny Garcia; grandfather Sam Lopez; girlfriend Amy Gonzalez; and cousin Danielle Lopez. Funeral services were held April 2, 2024, at Church on the Rock, with burial at Anton Cemetery.

Authorities have not released further details; it remains unclear whether anyone will be charged in connection with Garcia’s death. If anyone knew Eric or witnessed the incident, please share what is known.