On the night of November 27, 2024, 52-year-old Brian "Cason" Pence was fatally shot while sleeping in his home on Stonybrooke Drive in North Richland Hills, Texas. A vehicle had stopped in the street, and its occupants fired multiple handgun rounds at the house. One of these rounds penetrated a window, striking Mr. Pence as he slept. Despite being transported to a local medical facility, he succumbed to his injuries.
In the early hours of November 30, North Richland Hills Police detectives, in collaboration with the Fort Worth Police Department, arrested two suspects connected to Mr. Pence’s murder. A third suspect was apprehended on December 1 during a traffic stop. The individuals arrested are 19-year-old Anthony Zapata, 18-year-old Martin Marquez Diaz, and 17-year-old Alexander Ortega. All three have been charged with first-degree murder.
Investigations revealed that the suspects had no connection to Mr. Pence. They had intended to carry out a drive-by shooting stemming from a "juvenile feud" but tragically targeted the wrong address. The intended victim resided nearby. The North Richland Hills Police Department has expressed confidence that all individuals involved in and responsible for Mr. Pence's murder are now in custody.
The community has been left shaken by this incident, with neighbors expressing concerns over safety in their typically quiet neighborhood. In response, police have increased patrols in the area to provide reassurance and prevent further incidents.
Funeral services for Mr. Pence were held on December 6 and 7, 2024, at Lucas Funeral Home in Hurst, Texas, and St. Peter & St. Paul Anglican Church in Arlington, Texas, respectively.
