An 18-year-old woman, Marisol Guadalupe Ramirez, tragically lost her life on Sunday, January 11, 2026, in Slaton, Texas, a victim of a violent shooting that claimed two other lives and left two individuals critically injured. The incident, which has been described by law enforcement as a double capital murder-suicide, unfolded at a residence on East Floyd Street late that evening.
The Slaton Police Department reported that 27-year-old George Cantu entered the home armed and upset over
ongoing domestic issues with his former common-law wife. Inside the residence, Cantu opened fire, fatally wounding Marisol Ramirez and her cousin, 23-year-old Araceli Valdez. He also intentionally shot and critically injured his ex-wife, Jasmine Rivas, and another man, Isaiah Chapa, before turning the weapon on himself. Cantu was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities have indicated that alcohol was a contributing factor in the tragic events.
Marisol, who was born in Lubbock, was remembered as a passionate and caring soul with a deep love for others. A 2024 graduate of Sands High School in Ackerly, she was employed as a parts clerk at an O'Reilly Auto Parts in Slaton. Her interests were diverse, ranging from working on cars and listening to vinyl records to sewing, drawing, and astronomy. She had a fondness for collecting gems, rocks, and snow globes and cherished traveling and capturing moments through photography. Those who knew her described her as having unwavering loyalty and a genuine sense of care for the people she held close.
The investigation into the shooting has been taken over by the Metro Crimes Unit. The two survivors of the attack were transported to University Medical Center with critical injuries and were facing a long road to recovery. Joint funeral services were held for Marisol Ramirez and Araceli Valdez at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Slaton, followed by interment at Englewood Cemetery.
