On May 8, 2023, a tragic drive-by shooting occurred in San Antonio, Texas, claiming the life of 2-year-old Mackenzie Hernandez-Garcia. The incident took place around 1:30 p.m. at a residence in the 100 block of Future Drive, near West Avenue. Mackenzie was standing near the front door when she was struck by bullets, resulting in fatal injuries to her head and torso. Inside the home were five other children, aged between 2 and 6 years old, who fortunately were unharmed.
San Antonio Police Chief William McManus described the act as "pathetic," emphasizing the reckless disregard for human life displayed by the perpetrators. Investigations revealed that the drive-by shooting was a targeted attack; however, the intended individual was not present at the time. The residence was reportedly used by a woman babysitting neighborhood children, including Mackenzie.
In the ensuing investigation, authorities identified and arrested multiple suspects connected to the crime. On June 8, 2023, 17-year-old Derrain Turner was apprehended and charged with capital murder. Turner is believed to have been the passenger in a stolen truck from which the fatal shots were fired. Despite his arrest, Turner maintained his innocence, claiming, "I didn't do it," as he was taken into custody.
The following day, June 9, 2023, police arrested 37-year-old Anthony Arizmendez, who is accused of orchestrating and financing the drive-by shooting. Arizmendez allegedly planned the attack in retaliation for a disturbance involving a female family member and her ex-boyfriend, who was the intended target but was not present during the shooting. Arizmendez reportedly paid Turner to carry out the shooting.
Further developments in the case led to the arrest of a 16-year-old male on September 11, 2023. This individual is believed to have been the driver of the stolen truck used in the shooting and has been charged with capital murder. His identity has not been disclosed due to his age.
The arrests of these individuals highlight the collaborative efforts of law enforcement in bringing those responsible for this senseless act to justice. The community continues to mourn the loss of young Mackenzie, whose life was tragically cut short by this act of violence.
