On October 20, 2023, San Antonio police responded to a call near the intersection of Robeson Avenue and Morningview Street on the city's east side. Upon arrival, officers discovered 36-year-old Allison Cevallos inside a vehicle, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Cevallos, who was five months pregnant at the time, was transported to a hospital but tragically succumbed to her injuries; medical efforts to save her unborn child were unsuccessful.
Investigators quickly identified 37-year-old Michael Palafos, Cevallos's boyfriend, as the primary suspect. According to police reports, Palafos admitted that during an argument with Cevallos while seated in the car, he retrieved a 9mm handgun from the glove compartment. He claimed that during a struggle over the firearm, it discharged accidentally, striking Cevallos in the head. Instead of seeking immediate medical assistance, Palafos reportedly moved Cevallos from the driver's seat to the passenger's seat and drove to a friend's house to dispose of the weapon before informing his parents about the incident.
Palafos was arrested without incident near the crime scene and initially charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Following Cevallos's death and that of her unborn child, the charges were upgraded to capital murder of multiple persons. He was held in Bexar County Jail on a $1 million bond.
In August 2024, as part of a plea agreement, Palafos pleaded no contest to two counts of murder. The capital murder and aggravated assault charges were subsequently dropped. He was sentenced to 50 years in prison for the deaths of Cevallos and her unborn child. Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales described Palafos's actions as "inexcusable" and emphasized the commitment to holding offenders accountable, particularly in cases involving family violence.
The tragic loss of both Cevallos and her unborn child has had a profound impact on the community, highlighting the devastating consequences of domestic violence. Family and friends organized benefits to cover funeral expenses and raise awareness about the issue, seeking justice and support during this difficult time.
