On February 28, 2024, 30-year-old Andrew Garza was fatally shot during an attempted robbery at Sunny's Food Store and gas station on Bauman Road in north Houston. Garza and his uncle had stopped for gas on their way to work when a man armed with an AR pistol approached and demanded money. In response, Garza's uncle drew his own firearm, leading to a shootout. Tragically, Garza was shot in the head and died at the scene, while one of the suspects was also injured.
The Houston Police Department quickly identified and apprehended three suspects involved in the incident. Christian Nicholas Barrera, 19, and Fernando Aguilar Jr., 24, were arrested shortly after the shooting. The third suspect, 22-year-old Travante Marques Purvis, was taken into custody after being released from the hospital, where he was treated for injuries sustained during the shootout. All three suspects have been charged with capital murder in connection with Garza's death.
Andrew Garza was remembered by his family and community as a dedicated father and hard-working individual. He had recently celebrated his 30th birthday in January and is survived by his daughter, Aniyah Love Garza. A candlelight vigil was held in his honor at the gas station where the tragedy occurred, with family members expressing their grief and calling for justice.
The incident has raised concerns about safety in the area, with residents noting that another deadly shooting had occurred at the same gas station just months prior. Community members are urging for increased security measures and awareness to prevent such tragedies in the future.
