Erasmo Alaniz, a 26-year-old man from Houston, Texas, was tragically killed on September 13, 2015, during a robbery attempt in north Houston. Alaniz was shot and killed while trying to protect his wife, Deana, and their 2-year-old daughter. The incident occurred in the parking lot of a strip center in the 200 block of Aldine Bender Road and Imperial Valley.
According to reports, the family had just pulled into a parking space in front of a Subway restaurant after watching a Texans game when an armed suspect opened the rear passenger door of their vehicle. The suspect pointed a gun at Deana, prompting Alaniz to engage in a physical struggle with the gunman, which quickly escalated into gunfire. Despite the chaos, Deana managed to escape the vehicle with their daughter, who was unharmed.
The suspect, described as a black male, fled the scene in a Dodge Charger. Both the suspect and Alaniz died at the scene. Houston police have stated that there is no indication that the incident was anything other than a robbery attempt gone wrong. The suspect's identity has not been released, and the investigation is ongoing.
Alaniz's family and friends have described him as a hero who died protecting his loved ones. A candlelight vigil was held in his honor, where about 50 people gathered to share memories and light candles. Despite the tragedy, Deana expressed gratitude that she and her daughter were spared.
The investigation into Alaniz's death is being handled by the Houston Police Department, and they have urged anyone with information to come forward. The case remains open, and authorities continue to seek information that could lead to the identification and arrest of the suspect.
Erasmo Alaniz's death has left a lasting impact on his family and community, who remember him as a loving husband and father who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect his family.
