Victor Omar Duarte, an 18-year-old male of Hispanic ethnicity from San Angelo, Texas, tragically died on July 19, 2017. Duarte, who was affectionately known as "Dirty" to his friends and teammates, was a recent graduate of Central High School and an aspiring political science student at Angelo State University. He was well-loved in his community and had a bright future ahead of him.
On the morning of his death, Duarte was found fatally shot at a residence in the 1800 block of Edmund
Boulevard. San Angelo police responded to the scene and discovered that several people had fled the residence after the shooting. The investigation revealed that Xavior Rudolph Arzola, a 19-year-old resident of San Angelo, was responsible for the shooting. Arzola, who was present at the residence along with Duarte and others, recklessly handled a firearm, causing it to discharge and strike Duarte.
Arzola initially fled the scene but was later found and arrested. He was charged with manslaughter and tampering with evidence. In court, Arzola pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to 11 years in prison. The court also ordered him to pay restitution to Duarte's family.
The case highlighted issues related to drug use and reckless behavior with firearms. The San Angelo community mourned the loss of Duarte, who was remembered for his dedication to football, his infectious personality, and his aspirations for the future.
Victor Omar Duarte's death remains a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless actions and the importance of responsible behavior.
