On January 6, 2023, at approximately 4:30 a.m., a tragic shooting occurred at the Landmark on the Valley Apartments, located at Spring Valley Road and Esperanza Road in Dallas, Texas. Five individuals were shot while gathered in a back parking lot of the complex. Among the victims was 22-year-old Stanley Arnoldo Chachagua, who, along with 31-year-old Cesar Aaron Birrueta-Soto and 29-year-old Queidin Flores, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Two other male victims were transported to a local hospital, one in critical condition and the other in stable condition.
The Dallas Police Department's investigation revealed evidence of drug use at the scene, leading detectives to believe the shooting was not a random act. Chief Eddie Garcia emphasized that, while involvement in illicit activities does not justify the loss of life, such circumstances have been factors in several homicides.
In the course of their investigation, police identified 25-year-old Evin Geovanny Mata-Guzman as a suspect in the shooting. He was considered armed and dangerous, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Nearly a year later, on December 1, 2023, Mata-Guzman was apprehended and charged with capital murder in connection with the deaths of Chachagua, Birrueta-Soto, and Flores.
Following the incident, the Dallas Police Department increased patrols in the area, designating the apartment complex as a target zone to enhance security and prevent further violence. Chief Garcia acknowledged concerns over the number of homicides in the city and outlined plans to address safety in the community.
The loss of Stanley Arnoldo Chachagua was deeply felt by his family and friends. Born on August 16, 2000, in Chalchuapa, Santa Ana, El Salvador, Stanley had immigrated to the United States six years prior to his death. He was survived by his parents, José and Ana Ruth, his brother Oscar Gael, and his sister Michelle. His final resting place is Restland Memorial Park in Dallas, Texas.
