Erick Diablo Zelaya, a 27-year-old man from Arlington, Texas, was tragically killed on September 2, 2017. His death was part of a brutal double murder that also claimed the life of his 17-year-old girlfriend, Iris Chirinos. The investigation revealed that Zelaya and Chirinos were shot and beheaded by Hector Acosta-Ojeda, who was Zelaya's roommate at the time. Acosta-Ojeda, who was 30 years old, carried out the killings in retaliation for a previous shooting incident at his former home in Arlington.
The case against Acosta-Ojeda was built on substantial evidence, including his confession and the discovery of Zelaya's head near a walking trail close to AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The rest of Zelaya's body and Chirinos' body were found buried in the backyard of the house they shared. Acosta-Ojeda was arrested and charged with capital murder. During the trial, the prosecution argued that Acosta-Ojeda's actions were premeditated and intended to send a message.
In November 2019, a jury found Hector Acosta-Ojeda guilty of capital murder. Prosecutors sought the death penalty, and the jury ultimately sentenced him to death. The case highlighted the violent and dangerous nature of Acosta-Ojeda, who had a history of gang involvement and other violent crimes. The investigation and subsequent trial were instrumental in bringing justice for Erick Diablo Zelaya and Iris Chirinos.
The tragic deaths of Erick Diablo Zelaya and Iris Chirinos underscore the devastating impact of violence and the importance of thorough investigations and legal proceedings in ensuring justice for victims and their families.
