Jerry Paul Lee, a 61-year-old male of unspecified ethnicity, was fatally shot on November 6, 2020, during an attempted robbery at the Apple Four Points car dealership in northwest Austin, Texas. The incident occurred when two men, Alberto Torres and Modesto Hernandez, attempted to steal a car from the dealership. A shootout ensued between Torres and the dealership's manager, during which Torres shot Jerry Paul Lee, who died at the scene.
Following the incident, both Alberto Torres and
Modesto Hernandez were arrested and charged with capital murder. Torres was later found guilty of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison. Hernandez also faced charges and was sentenced to 15 years in state prison.
The tragic death of Jerry Paul Lee led to a lawsuit filed by his spouse and son against the dealership, seeking damages for their loss. The case highlighted the growing concern over violence in Austin, with the Austin Crime Commission President noting the increasing homicide rates in the city.
The investigation and subsequent trials brought some measure of justice for Jerry Paul Lee's family, but the loss of the well-liked and respected dealership employee left a lasting impact on his friends, colleagues, and the community.
