On May 3, 2019, Richard Peña, a 54-year-old Hispanic male, was fatally shot in Dallas, Texas. Born on September 24, 1964, in Dallas, Richard was a house painter by trade and was known for his love of fishing, swimming, and carpentry. He was remembered by family and friends as a jokester who lived life to the fullest.
The incident occurred around 10:45 p.m. at a residence in the White Rock neighborhood.
According to an arrest warrant affidavit, Richard Peña and his longtime friend, 65-year-old Bobby Roberts, were in the living room of the house located in the 1200 block of Peavy Road. They began arguing, which was not uncommon for the two friends who often engaged in playful disputes. However, this argument escalated when Roberts produced a handgun. Peña reportedly remarked, "If you pull out a gun, you better intend to use it." A single gunshot was then heard, and Peña was found shot in the chest. Emergency responders arrived and pronounced him dead at the scene.
Immediately after the shooting, Bobby Roberts called 911 and informed the dispatcher that he had shot his friend "because he was talking too much smack." Roberts confessed to the crime during police questioning and was subsequently arrested. He was charged with murder and detained in the Dallas County jail with bail set at $100,000.
Richard Peña's death was one of five fatal shootings that occurred within a seven-hour span across various Dallas neighborhoods that evening. Authorities determined that these incidents were unrelated. Dallas has one of the highest crime rates in the nation, with residents facing a one in 25 chance of becoming a victim of violent or property crime.
Richard Peña is survived by his loving wife, Sally Peña; his son, Little Richard; sister, Virginia Mata; and brothers, Jesse and Tino Peña. He was preceded in death by his parents, Micaela and Joe Peña, and siblings Michael, Joseph, and David Peña.
