Arturo Benavides, a 60-year-old Hispanic man, was tragically killed on August 3, 2019, during the mass shooting at a Walmart in El Paso, Texas. Benavides, a decorated Army veteran and Sun Metro bus driver, was among the 22 people who lost their lives in the attack. The shooter, identified as Patrick Crusius, a 21-year-old white man from suburban Dallas, allegedly targeted Hispanics and immigrants. Crusius drove over 10 hours to El Paso with the intent to carry out the attack.
He later pleaded guilty to 90 federal counts, including 45 hate crime charges, and was sentenced to 90 consecutive life terms in prison.
The El Paso community came together to honor Benavides' memory. His funeral was attended by over 200 people, including family, friends, coworkers, and fellow veterans. The ceremony included a three-volley salute and "Taps" played by a bugler from the Fort Bliss band. Sun Metro, the company for which Benavides worked, showed solidarity by displaying "In Memory of Arturo Benavides" on one of their buses. The Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo Tribal Fire Division also honored him with a giant American flag raised by the ladder of a firetruck.
Benavides' death was a devastating loss for his family and the community. He is remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, and dedicated public servant. His legacy lives on through the memories of those who knew him and the impact he had on the lives of many.
