Rene Cantu, a 34-year-old Hispanic man from Houston, Texas, was tragically shot and killed on November 9, 2020, while out for a late-night jog in the Montrose area. Cantu, who worked as a communications coordinator at the University of Houston, was described by his family and friends as a gentle, shy soul who loved jogging and walking the streets. His death was part of a violent 24-hour period in Houston, during which seven people were killed.
Cantu's body was found early Monday morning
by someone passing by who called for help. He suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his neck, back, chest, and left hand. The family has expressed their heartbreak and devastation over his loss, with his cousin Roland Castillo stating that Cantu was a big-hearted, loving, and quiet person who was always ready to help out.
As of now, no suspects have been arrested in connection with Cantu's murder, and the motive remains unclear. The Houston Police Department and Crime Stoppers of Houston have been actively searching for information and have offered a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of the suspect. The family has also set up a GoFundMe page to help with funeral expenses.
The University of Houston released a statement mourning the loss of Cantu, describing him as a brilliant writer and a hard-working team player with an amazing sense of humor. The family continues to pray for justice and hopes that the person responsible for Cantu's death will be caught soon.
