On September 4, 2023, 21-year-old Charles Edward Marin was fatally shot at the Crossroad Valley Apartments in El Paso, Texas. Marin had been staying overnight at his ex-girlfriend's apartment when a verbal altercation ensued between them. During the argument, the woman asked Marin to leave her residence. Seeking safety, she went to a neighbor's apartment for shelter.
When the neighbor, identified as 27-year-old Isaiah James Borquez, opened his door, Marin attempted to force his way inside. A physical struggle occurred between Marin and Borquez outside the apartment. In response, Borquez shot Marin and immediately provided first aid. Upon arrival, police found both men outside between two apartment buildings, with Borquez administering aid to Marin, who was on the ground with a gunshot wound. Marin was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Following an investigation by the Crimes Against Persons Unit, authorities determined that no charges would be filed against Borquez. The case was presented to the El Paso District Attorney’s Office for review, and it was concluded that Borquez's actions were justified under the circumstances.
Marin is survived by his parents, Carlos Eduardo Marin and Sara Leanne Ballantine; his stepfather, Jason Dwayne Kirkland; his children, River Cyrus Marin and Phoenix Rose Marin; his sister, Izabella Mei Villegas; and other extended family members. A visitation and prayer service were held on September 14, 2023, at Sunset Funeral Homes-West in El Paso to honor his memory.
