In the early morning hours of October 1, 2020, a dispute that began inside an East Chicago, Indiana bar tragically spilled outside, ending the life of 36-year-old Fabian Villagomez. The incident unfolded at El Sombrero Bar, located at 2001 Broadway Street. An argument that started within the establishment escalated and moved outdoors, culminating in a fatal shooting.
East Chicago Police were alerted to the scene around 3:27 AM by a shot spotter notification that detected four gunshots near the bar. Upon their arrival, officers discovered Villagomez on the ground, having sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The Lake County Coroner's office later confirmed his identity and determined the cause of death to be from the injuries he sustained.
The investigation into the homicide led to 19-year-old David Maximiliano Garza of East Chicago being identified as the suspect. According to court documents, the altercation began inside the bar where Garza allegedly drew a firearm on another man. Villagomez, who was reportedly laughing at the situation, became the target of Garza's aggression. As Villagomez was leaving the bar, Garza allegedly shot him once or twice in the back. He then reportedly returned to where Villagomez lay on the ground and shot him several more times.
Within two days of the shooting, in what was believed to be an act of retaliation for Villagomez's death, Garza himself was shot in the neck. He sustained severe injuries and spent three months in an intensive care unit. Despite his grave medical condition, David Maximiliano Garza was formally charged with the murder of Fabian Villagomez on November 3, 2020. His case was scheduled to proceed in Lake Superior Court, with arrangements made for him to appear at hearings via Zoom due to his physical condition.
