On August 19, 2023, 22-year-old Ricky Bernal Jr. was tragically shot and killed in Atascosa County, Texas. The incident occurred near his residence on Big Leaf Road, close to Old Pleasanton Road. Neighbors reported hearing gunshots and discovered Bernal bleeding in the yard. Despite prompt emergency response, he succumbed to a single gunshot wound.
In the ensuing investigation, the Atascosa County Sheriff's Office identified multiple suspects.
On September 7, 2023, 20-year-old Joseph Saiz was arrested and charged with failure to report a felony, a charge later upgraded to murder following further investigation. Saiz, who had previously been an acquaintance of Bernal and had even stayed on his property, was accused of being the primary shooter. On June 12, 2024, Saiz pleaded no contest and accepted a plea agreement, resulting in a 40-year prison sentence for the murder of Bernal. During the sentencing, Bernal's family delivered emotional impact statements, expressing their grief and the profound impact of the loss.
A second suspect, 18-year-old Cason Cash Raymond, was apprehended on September 19, 2023, at an apartment complex on the south side of San Antonio. His arrest followed a tip received by Atascosa County Crime Stoppers. Raymond was charged with murder and remains in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings.
Additionally, on August 21, 2023, 19-year-old Kobey Torres Coronado was arrested after a high-speed chase and an extensive search. Coronado was charged with evading arrest with a vehicle, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, theft of a firearm, and evading arrest on foot. Authorities continue to investigate his association with the primary suspects in Bernal's murder.
The arrests and subsequent legal actions have provided some measure of justice for Bernal's grieving family. However, the community continues to mourn the loss of a young father whose life was tragically cut short.
