On October 7, 2018, Juan Jose Casas-Cruz, a 34-year-old Hispanic male, was tragically killed in Irving, Texas. Casas-Cruz was a passenger in a vehicle traveling southbound on State Loop 12 near State Highway 183 when a small pickup truck pulled up next to them and began shooting. Casas-Cruz was hit by one of the rounds and succumbed to his injuries.
His family mentioned that he had been at a restaurant watching a game before the shooting and was in the car with his brother and nephew when the incident occurred.
The Irving Police Department launched an investigation into the homicide but initially had no suspects or motives. They described the suspect's vehicle as a dark green Toyota Tacoma pickup truck with dark tinted windows, model years 1995-2000. The police emphasized that the shooting did not appear to be gang-related and there was no apparent reason why Casas-Cruz and his companions were targeted.
Several months later, an anonymous tip led to the arrest of Jose Alexander Lopez, an 18-year-old, for the murder of Juan Jose Casas-Cruz. Lopez was charged with the crime, and the case moved forward with legal proceedings.
Casas-Cruz was a dedicated family man and a hard worker who had been saving money to return to his wife and children in Mexico and start a business. His life revolved around his work and church, and he had recently been baptized in a local Adventist Church. His untimely death left a significant impact on his family and community.
The investigation into the murder of Juan Jose Casas-Cruz continues as authorities seek justice for the victim and his family. The Irving Police Department has urged anyone with information about the case to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
