On February 19, 2023, at approximately 4:11 a.m., 23-year-old Erasmo Guadalupe Avila was fatally shot while riding in a vehicle in the 2700 block of Guadalupe Street on Corpus Christi's West Side. The vehicle had reportedly circled the block multiple times before shots were fired, striking Avila, who was seated in the rear. He was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Following an investigation, on February 21, 2023, Corpus Christi Police Department detectives and patrol officers arrested two 16-year-old juveniles in connection with Avila's death. The suspects were charged with murder and taken into custody. Their identities have not been released due to their age.
Erasmo, affectionately known as "Tito," was born on August 26, 1999. He is survived by his two children, Erasmo Guadalupe Avila III and Emir Liam Avila; his parents, Erasmo Guadalupe Avila and Maricela Guerrero; and five siblings. Visitation and rosary services were held on February 24, 2023, at Memorial Funeral Home in San Juan, Texas. A funeral service took place on February 25, 2023, at St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Catholic Church in Pharr, followed by interment at Val Verde Memorial Gardens in Donna, Texas.
The tragic loss of Erasmo has deeply affected his family and the local community. An online memorial has been established in his honor, where loved ones have shared memories and condolences, underscoring the impact he had on those around him.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Avila's death and urge anyone with additional information to contact detectives at 361-886-2840 or call Crime Stoppers at 361-888-TIPS.
