On April 21, 2023, in Lubbock, Texas, 51-year-old Ricardo Borrego Mojica was fatally shot following an altercation in the 7700 block of 19th Street. Responding to reports of gunfire just before 6:00 p.m., Lubbock Police Department officers found Mojica with gunshot wounds to his lower abdomen. He was transported to University Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries the following morning.
The Metropolitan Special Crimes Unit, in collaboration with the Texas Anti-Gang Center, launched an investigation into Mojica's death. Their efforts led to the identification of 17-year-old Elijah Martinez as a suspect. On April 26, 2023, Martinez was arrested without incident in the 4700 block of Lehigh Street, near Centennial Elementary School. As a precaution during the arrest, the school was placed on a brief security protocol, though there was no active threat to the campus.
Martinez was charged with murder and booked into the Lubbock County Detention Center. In Texas, a murder charge is a first-degree felony, carrying potential penalties of five to 99 years or life imprisonment, along with a fine of up to $10,000. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mojica's death remains ongoing.
Mojica was born on November 16, 1971, in Lubbock, and worked as a brick and concrete layer for many years. He had a deep love for music, particularly Tejano, and enjoyed playing the accordion. Known for his unique style, he often wore hats, bandanas, and glasses. His family remembers him for his special personality, his respect for others, and his desire to make people smile. Above all, he cherished his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his father, Julian Mojica; his three daughters, Jacqueline, Briana, and Lauren Mojica; his three sons, Ricky Jr., Lincoln, and Biyetz Mojica; his brothers, Andres, Julian Jr., and Michael Mojica; his sisters, Teresa Valdez and Norma Mojica; and seven grandchildren.
A memorial service for Mojica was held on May 10, 2023, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Lubbock, officiated by Father Martin Pina. His passing has left a profound impact on his family and the Lubbock community, who continue to mourn his loss.
