On February 28, 2023, at approximately 4:14 a.m., San Antonio police officers responded to reports of gunshots at the Woodmont Townhomes located at 3843 Barrington Street near Starcrest Drive. Upon arrival, officers observed black smoke emanating from a locked apartment. San Antonio Fire Department crews forced entry into the residence and discovered the body of 54-year-old Francisco Javier Ramirez Jr. during fire suppression efforts.
Ramirez had sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators noted that the fire appeared suspicious, citing multiple points of origin within the apartment. A witness reported hearing multiple gunshots and observed a vehicle speeding away from the area; however, the description of the suspect was vague and could not be confirmed. Authorities have not announced any arrests or identified any suspects in connection with Ramirez's death. The investigation remains ongoing.
Ramirez, originally from Laredo, Texas, was known for his active involvement in the community. He graduated from United High School in 1986 and later earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Incarnate Word College in 1990, followed by a Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M International University in 1998. In 2004, he founded A Plus Tutoring Center and subsequently opened Superior Academy of Laredo in 2009. Ramirez was a member of the Laredo Gateway Rotary Club, serving as president from 2012 to 2013, and was involved with the Salvation Army, acting as chairman from 2014 to 2016. At the time of his death, he was pursuing an American Sign Language Certification at San Antonio College and volunteered with various regional schools for the deaf.
Family and friends remember Ramirez, affectionately known as "Frankie," "Javi," or "Frank," for his vibrant personality and generosity. He is survived by his spouse, Evan Gutierrez; his mother, Francisca Ramirez; and siblings San Juana Sanchez, Maria de Lourdes Blair, Eduardo Ramirez, and Lorena Tidwell, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and friends. Funeral services were held in Laredo, Texas, with a Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, followed by interment at Calvary Catholic Cemetery.
