Xavier Domingo Gonzalez, a 14-year-old Hispanic male from Garland, Texas, tragically lost his life on December 26, 2021. Xavier was an innocent bystander who was fatally shot inside a convenience store in Garland. He was waiting to buy tacos for his grandparents when the shooting occurred. The incident was part of a larger crime spree that resulted in the deaths of two other teenagers, 17-year-old Rafael Garcia and 16-year-old Ivan Noyala.
The suspected shooter, 14-year-old Abel Acosta,
had a prior dispute with Rafael Garcia and Ivan Noyala, but there was no known history between him and Xavier. Abel's father, Richard Acosta, was later convicted of capital murder for driving his son to and from the crime scene. Richard Acosta was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Abel Acosta, however, remains at large, and authorities believe he left the country with assistance.
The Gonzalez family has been vocal about their grief and the need for justice. Xavier's mother, Lluneli Lopez, and his uncle, Rafael Gonzalez, have shared their heartbreak and the impact Xavier's loss has had on their family. Xavier's grandfather owns a ranch in Hunt County, and Xavier often spent time there, making the ranch a place filled with memories for the family.
Despite the conviction of Richard Acosta, the family continues to hope that Abel Acosta will be found and brought to justice. The Garland Police Department has offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to Abel's whereabouts. The investigation remains ongoing, and the families of the victims are determined to see justice served.
Xavier Domingo Gonzalez's death has left a lasting impact on his family and community, and they continue to seek closure and justice for the young teenager who was taken too soon.
