On October 4, 2024, San Antonio police responded to a call at the Victoria Plaza Apartments, located in the 400 block of Barrera Street, after reports of a foul odor emanating from one of the units. Upon arrival, officers discovered the body of 52-year-old Donnell "Donnie" Jomar Sterling inside his apartment. The Bexar County Medical Examiner's Office later determined that Sterling had died from a gunshot wound to the head, ruling his death a homicide.
Sterling, a father of four and a cook at Good Time Charlie’s, was last heard from by his family on September 26. His mother had been attempting to reach him since September 29. Residents of the apartment complex reported noticing a bad smell earlier in the week, which led to the discovery of his body. Family members described Sterling as a good person who kept to himself, expressing their devastation and desire for justice.
In the days leading up to Sterling's death, another resident of Victoria Plaza, 59-year-old Nick Martinez, was found dead in his apartment on October 1. Martinez's death was ruled a homicide caused by sharp force injuries. The proximity and timing of these two deaths raised concerns among residents and authorities about safety and potential connections between the incidents.
San Antonio police identified 35-year-old Daniel Gonzalez as a suspect in Sterling's murder. Gonzalez, a convicted felon, was initially approached by detectives as a person of interest in Martinez's death. During this interaction, he was found in possession of a handgun, leading to his arrest for unlawful possession of a firearm. Further investigation revealed that shell casings found at Sterling's crime scene matched the handgun in Gonzalez's possession. Surveillance footage also placed Gonzalez at the apartment complex on the date of Sterling's murder. Consequently, Gonzalez was charged with Sterling's murder while already in custody. Authorities continue to investigate his potential involvement in Martinez's death.
The two homicides within such a short timeframe have left residents of Victoria Plaza on edge, prompting calls for increased security measures. Opportunity Home San Antonio, the organization managing the complex, stated that they are actively assessing security protocols and working with local authorities to address safety concerns. Enhanced lighting, security cameras, and electronic access controls are among the measures being evaluated to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
