Gerber Danilo Panteleon-Palencia, a 33-year-old man from Nashville, Tennessee, was fatally shot on March 20, 2025, while visiting family in Nacogdoches, Texas. The incident occurred in the front yard of a residence on N. Popp Street, where neighbors reported hearing gunshots around 1 p.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered Panteleon-Palencia suffering from at least two gunshot wounds.
Despite his injuries, he was able to provide details about the incident before being transported to a hospital in Tyler for critical surgery. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries later that night.
Authorities arrested 17-year-old Hernan Cuarenta of Nacogdoches in connection with the shooting. Initially charged with aggravated assault and theft of a firearm, his charges were later upgraded to first-degree murder following Panteleon-Palencia’s death. Investigators revealed that Cuarenta fled the scene in the victim’s truck, which was later found abandoned on W. Scale Street. Police located Cuarenta nearby and took him into custody. He reportedly informed officers of the location of the handgun used in the shooting.
The relationship between Panteleon-Palencia and Cuarenta remains unclear, though initial reports suggested they were family members. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and additional details may emerge as the case progresses. Cuarenta remains in custody at the Nacogdoches County Jail.
