On August 8, 2023, 19-year-old Ricardo De La Fuente Jr. was fatally shot during a botched car sale in south Bexar County, near San Antonio, Texas. De La Fuente and a relative had arranged to sell a 2006 Dodge Charger through social media, meeting the prospective buyers near Highway 281 and Hume Road. During the transaction, a 15-year-old suspect attempted to rob them at gunpoint, leading to an exchange of gunfire that resulted in De La Fuente's death and injuries to his relative.
The 15-year-old suspect, whose identity has been withheld due to his age, was arrested and charged with capital murder. In May 2024, a juvenile court judge certified him to stand trial as an adult, citing the severity of the crime and the evidence presented.
Additionally, 18-year-old Daquan Veneka Ruffin was arrested and charged with capital murder in connection with the incident. Investigators allege that Ruffin participated in planning the robbery and was present during the fatal encounter.
Ricardo De La Fuente Jr., affectionately known as "Jay," was born on May 5, 2004. He is survived by his mother, Vanessa Trevino, and his sister, Bernice Cancino, among other family members and close friends. Funeral services were held on August 23, 2023, at Palm Heights Mortuary in San Antonio, where loved ones gathered to honor his memory.
The tragic loss of Ricardo has deeply affected his family and the San Antonio community. As legal proceedings continue against the individuals involved, his loved ones seek justice and strive to preserve his memory amidst the ongoing investigation.
