Guadalupe David DeLuna, a 42-year-old Hispanic male, tragically lost his life on April 15, 2020, in Laredo, Texas. DeLuna, a dedicated firefighter with the Laredo Fire Department for 21 years, was fatally shot in an incident that has been described as a domestic altercation. The events leading to his death unfolded when DeLuna allegedly broke into his estranged wife's apartment and confronted a man she was with. This man was later identified as Ernesto Gillen, a 43-year-old U.S.
Customs and Border Protection officer. According to the arrest affidavit, DeLuna had sent threats to his wife before forcibly entering her apartment. Upon entry, DeLuna allegedly attacked Gillen, knocking him to the ground. Gillen, fearing for his life, drew his duty weapon and shot DeLuna in the upper chest, resulting in DeLuna's death at the scene.
The investigation into the incident revealed clear signs of forced entry, including a broken front door and door frame. Detectives found DeLuna's body with a gunshot wound to his left upper chest, and a spent .40-caliber casing was discovered nearby. Gillen was arrested and charged with murder but was released the same day after posting a $100,000 surety bond. He was placed on "non-duty status" with his employer pending further investigation. Gillen's attorney claimed that the shooting was an act of self-defense, stating that Gillen had a thought of "imminent death" during the altercation. The case was presented to a grand jury, which ultimately returned a "no bill," indicating that they did not find sufficient evidence to prosecute Gillen for murder.
This tragic incident has left a profound impact on the Laredo community, particularly among DeLuna's colleagues at the fire department and his surviving family members. DeLuna was remembered as a loving father and a dedicated public servant who had served both in the U.S. Navy and the Laredo Fire Department. The case highlights the complexities and emotional toll of domestic disputes and the legal challenges in determining self-defense claims in such situations.
