On September 11, 2023, 30-year-old Roberto Garza was fatally shot outside his residence at 3409 Mezcal Drive in Pharr, Texas. According to witness accounts, Garza was inside his home when he responded to a knock at the door from an individual identifying himself as "Chito." An argument ensued between Garza and the visitor, during which Garza stepped outside carrying a knife. After a brief confrontation, Garza returned indoors, but the individual continued knocking, apologizing persistently.
Garza went outside again, at which point multiple gunshots were heard, followed by a voice saying, "that's what you get" in Spanish. The assailant then fled the scene in a black four-door vehicle.
The suspect was identified as 26-year-old Rheinchard "Chito" Lara, Garza's brother-in-law. Lara turned himself in to the Pharr Police Department on September 12, 2023, and was subsequently charged with first-degree murder. During his arraignment, bond was initially set at $750,000 but was later reduced to $400,000. Lara remains in custody at the Hidalgo County Adult Detention Center.
In November 2023, a grand jury indicted Lara on the murder charge. He is scheduled for arraignment, where he will formally respond to the charges against him. The investigation revealed that the fatal encounter followed a heated argument between Garza and Lara, culminating in Garza being shot multiple times in the face, head, and neck.
The tragic incident has deeply affected the local community, with many mourning the loss of Roberto Garza. A memorial page dedicated to him has garnered numerous tributes, reflecting the sorrow and support from those who knew him.
