Francisco Cortina, a 17-year-old male of Hispanic ethnicity, tragically passed away on September 5, 2016, in San Benito, Texas. He was a senior at San Benito High School and was well-known in his community for his involvement in various school programs, including the Building Trade Program for electrical and welding, as well as his participation in the FFA Club.
Francisco was also an avid horseman and enjoyed playing football and basketball.
The cause of Francisco's death was a gunshot wound to the chest. According to the Cameron County Sheriff’s office, Francisco was accidentally shot by his close friend, Ramon Saldivar, who was 18 years old at the time. Saldivar claimed that the two were playing with a .40 caliber pistol when it accidentally discharged, hitting Francisco. Saldivar was taken into custody and charged with manslaughter. He reportedly called the police immediately after the shooting occurred.
The incident took place at a residence on Ranchito Road, off Highway 281, in San Benito. Following the shooting, the San Benito school district provided support and counseling to students and staff members to help them cope with the loss. The community expressed deep condolences to Francisco's family and friends, and the school district urged parents to talk to their children about their feelings of grief and sadness.
Saldivar's bond was set at $125,000 after he was charged. The investigation revealed that Saldivar was the owner of the gun, but further details about the case were not immediately available. The tragic event left a significant impact on the San Benito community, and efforts were made to provide comfort and support to those affected.
Francisco Cortina is remembered fondly by his family, friends, and the entire community for his respectful nature and his ability to get along with everyone. He is survived by his parents, Praxedis Jr. and Mary G. Cortina, his sister Cassandra, his brother Praxedis III, and several other family members.
