On January 12, 2024, at approximately 7:54 p.m., 22-year-old Cleiver Hurel "KK" Gamez-Santos was fatally shot at the Cricket Hollow Apartments in northeast Austin, Texas. Responding to reports of gunfire, Austin Police Department (APD) officers arrived at the complex, located at 11441 N. Interstate 35 near Braker Lane, and intercepted a vehicle described by 911 callers. Inside, they found Gamez-Santos in the passenger seat, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 8:40 p.m.
Investigations revealed that Gamez-Santos had been shot within the apartment complex and was being driven away when officers stopped the vehicle. An autopsy confirmed that he died from gunshot wounds, and his death was classified as a homicide.
In the ensuing weeks, APD identified and arrested two suspects in connection with the murder. On February 9, 2024, 21-year-olds Erik Martinez Jaimes and Mereicio Allen were charged with capital murder. According to arrest affidavits, the suspects targeted Gamez-Santos for robbery, noting that he was wearing an Audemars Piguet watch valued at $99,850. During the robbery, they allegedly shot and killed him.
Subsequently, APD sought a third individual, 23-year-old Jovanni Arriaga, in connection with the homicide. Authorities released his identity and requested public assistance in locating him, though details regarding his alleged involvement were not immediately disclosed.
The death of Cleiver Gamez-Santos marked Austin's fifth homicide of 2024. His passing was deeply mourned by his family, including his parents, siblings, and nieces. Funeral services were held at San Jose Catholic Church, followed by burial at Assumption Cemetery.
