On February 13, 2023, 19-year-old Isaac Garcia was fatally shot outside the Mission Plaza Shopping Center on Ayers Street in Corpus Christi, Texas. The incident involved an exchange of gunfire between occupants of multiple vehicles in the shopping center's parking lot. When police arrived at the scene, both vehicles had already departed. Shortly thereafter, Garcia was admitted to a local hospital with gunshot wounds and succumbed to his injuries.
Investigators determined that the shooting was not a random act, as the individuals involved were acquainted with each other. On February 16, 2023, U.S. Marshals arrested 39-year-old Benjamin Peña and his 18-year-old son, Devin Peña, in connection with Garcia's death. Both were charged with murder and held on $500,000 bonds.
The trial for the Peñas commenced in early 2024. Prosecutors alleged that Devin Peña shot Garcia during the altercation, with his father, Benjamin, implicated in the events leading up to the shooting. The defense contended that the incident was a result of escalating tensions between the parties involved.
In March 2024, the jury found both Devin and Benjamin Peña guilty of murder. Subsequently, Devin was sentenced to 40 years in prison, while Benjamin received a 10-year sentence. The convictions brought a measure of closure to Garcia's family, who had been seeking justice for his untimely death.
