Jorge Rolando Arbaiza, a 61-year-old man, tragically lost his life on March 16, 2025, in Katy, Texas, after being caught in the crossfire of a violent altercation inside a McDonald's restaurant. Arbaiza, an innocent bystander, had entered the fast-food establishment near West Little York and North Fry Road to pick up Happy Meals for his grandchildren. His wife, Teresa, was waiting outside in the parking lot with the children when the gunfire erupted.
In a heartbreaking moment, she recalled calling her husband in a panic, only to hear him say, “I’m dying,” before the line went silent.
The shooting stemmed from a confrontation between two groups of young individuals, reportedly aged between 16 and 21. The dispute escalated into gunfire, leaving Arbaiza fatally wounded. Another individual involved in the fight was also shot but survived. The restaurant was filled with customers, including several children, at the time of the incident, adding to the chaos and fear.
Authorities swiftly launched an investigation, leading to the arrest of two suspects. Antoine Leandre Ridge, a 24-year-old man, was identified as the individual responsible for delivering the fatal shot. Ridge was taken into custody by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Violent Criminals Apprehension Team and the Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force. He was charged with murder. Court records revealed that Ridge had a pending warrant for an aggravated assault charge in Harris County, stemming from a previous incident in which he allegedly displayed a firearm while threatening a person he was in a dating relationship with.
A second suspect, 19-year-old Paul Whitley, was also arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, searching for additional individuals involved in the shootout. The suspects were reportedly associated with two separate groups—one traveling in a maroon SUV and the other in a white sedan.
Arbaiza’s death has left his family devastated. Teresa, his wife of nearly 40 years, shared that they had been preparing to celebrate their anniversary before the tragedy unfolded. She described her husband as a devoted family man who cherished his grandchildren. A GoFundMe campaign was set up to support his widow and family in the wake of his untimely passing.
Law enforcement officials remain committed to ensuring justice for Arbaiza and his loved ones, as they continue their efforts to apprehend any remaining suspects involved in the deadly altercation.
