Gerardo "Jerry" Rodriguez, a 16-year-old Hispanic male from Pharr, Texas, tragically lost his life on March 13, 2017. He was fatally shot during a home invasion in the 900 block of East Dreyer Street. According to police reports, three masked men broke into the residence, demanding money and valuables. During the incident, one of the suspects fired at Jerry and his 48-year-old uncle, who was also shot but survived and was later released from the hospital.
The investigation into Jerry's
death led to the arrest of Ambrosio Guadalupe Rodriguez, a 30-year-old man from Pharr. He was charged with capital murder by terroristic threat. However, during court proceedings, Ambrosio's attorney claimed that his client did not pull the trigger and suggested that he could help identify the actual shooter. Despite this claim, Ambrosio has remained in custody on a $1.5 million bond since his arrest on March 23, 2017.
The case has seen several continuances and delays, with the most recent hearing revealing that the state prosecutors were not ready to go to trial. Judge Rose Guerra Reyna emphasized the need for a resolution, reminding both the defense and prosecution of the case's age and urging them to reach a plea agreement. If no plea is reached, the case is set to go to trial.
Jerry's death has had a profound impact on his family and the community, with many calling for justice and closure. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to seek the truth behind the tragic events of that day.
