On December 20, 2023, at approximately 1:30 a.m., San Antonio first responders were alerted by an automated crash notification from a cell phone, indicating a potential accident on the eastbound access road of Highway 151 near Callaghan Road. Upon arrival, paramedics discovered 29-year-old Damion Jamal Franklin lying face down. Initially presumed to be a hit-and-run victim, further examination revealed multiple gunshot wounds to his back, prompting authorities to classify the case as a homicide.
Investigators determined that Franklin had arranged to meet 18-year-old Joseph David Melgar-Hernandez in the 600 block of Porter Street, near South Gevers Street on the East Side, shortly after 1 a.m. Surveillance footage captured Franklin arriving at the location in his vehicle, with Melgar-Hernandez entering the passenger side moments later. Subsequent events led to Franklin being fatally shot, after which his body was abandoned on the access road of Highway 151.
The investigation utilized various technological tools, including GPS data from Franklin's vehicle and cell phone records, which indicated communication between the victim and suspect shortly before the meeting. Additionally, a witness reported hearing Franklin pleading for his life during the incident. Physical evidence collected from Franklin's abandoned vehicle included a bullet hole in the driver's side window, bloodstains, and shell casings, supporting the sequence of events leading to his death.
On January 18, 2024, authorities arrested Melgar-Hernandez, charging him with murder in connection to Franklin's death. He was subsequently booked into the Bexar County Jail with bail set at $250,000. While the exact motive remains under investigation, reports suggest the incident may have been related to a debt over a narcotics deal.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, Franklin's family, including his mother, child, and wife, have sought community support to cover funeral expenses. A GoFundMe campaign was established to assist with the financial burden during this difficult time.
