Two Arrested After Gunfire Directed Toward Homes in Del Rio
DEL RIO, TX — Two individuals have been arrested following a dangerous incident in which gunfire was directed toward homes and responding officers in Del Rio, according to authorities.
The incident occurred on April 5, 2026, at approximately 2:15 p.m., when an officer with the Del Rio Police Department responded to a report of shots fired in the 700 block of East Virginia Street.
Officers Encounter Active Gunfire
Upon arrival, the officer began canvassing the area when multiple gunshots were heard coming from a brush area south of the location. The Val Verde County Sheriff’s Office was requested to assist in searching the area.
During the response, additional shots were fired toward the officer and nearby residences. Authorities reported that tree branches near officers were struck by gunfire, forcing officers to take immediate cover while notifying additional units of an active threat.
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Multi-Agency Search Leads to Evidence
Additional Del Rio Police officers, along with U.S. Border Patrol agents, conducted a coordinated search of the Vista Hermosa area.
During the search, investigators located spent shell casings near the City of Del Rio Landfill. Officers also found empty bottles and lids believed to have been used as targets.
Suspects Identified Through Investigation
While processing the scene, a Department of Public Safety Trooper made contact with a witness who reported seeing two individuals enter the brush area earlier, leaving a vehicle parked nearby.
The vehicle registration led officers to a residence in the 800 block of East Virginia Street, where contact was made with Elijah Andrew Garza, 18, and Shay Levon Garza, 25.
Authorities determined that both individuals had discharged a firearm multiple times while shooting at miscellaneous targets. Investigators say the suspects became aware of police presence and fled the area, attempting to conceal the weapon.
Firearm Recovered, Charges Filed
Officers later located the firearm in an alley in the 700 block of East Bowie Street. The weapon was recovered and entered into evidence.
Both suspects were arrested and charged with Deadly Conduct and Tampering or Fabricating Physical Evidence.
They were transported to the police station for processing and later transferred to the GEO Correctional Facility pending magistration.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing. Officials continue to emphasize the serious risk posed by reckless firearm discharge in residential areas.
Individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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