Del Rio Police Update on Homicide Investigation Following Welfare Check
The Del Rio Police Department has released an update on a homicide investigation stemming from a welfare check conducted on December 12, 2024, which tragically uncovered the death of a 72-year-old male. The victim was discovered with multiple injuries to the face and body after authorities forced entry into his residence on Avenue K.
Discovery of the Crime Scene
The welfare check was initiated after a concerned citizen approached the police, requesting a visit to the home of a relative. Upon arrival, officers observed what appeared to be blood and requested assistance from the Criminal Investigation Division. After securing the scene, detectives launched a homicide investigation, learning that the victim had recently allowed a relative to stay with him.
The relative, identified as Jose Angel Arreola Jr., 48, was not present at the scene, and the victim’s vehicle was missing. This provided detectives with a key lead for the investigation.
Vehicle Located in San Antonio Area
Detectives tracked the missing vehicle to the San Antonio area using the TCIC/NCIC database, where it had been flagged as stolen. On December 13, 2024, the vehicle was recovered in Leon Valley, Texas, by the Leon Valley Police Department. The recovered vehicle was returned to Del Rio for further processing.
Arrest and Investigation Progress
On December 15, 2024, the Leon Valley Police Department arrested Jose Angel Arreola Jr. on unrelated charges of burglary of a habitation committed in their jurisdiction. Detectives in Del Rio then secured two arrest warrants for Arreola related to the theft of property (valued between $2,500 and $30,000) and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. These warrants were entered into the national database with the assistance of the Val Verde Sheriff’s Office. Arreola was remanded to the Bexar County Adult Detention Center.
Discovery of Evidence and Murder Charge
On December 17, 2024, detectives executed a search warrant for the victim’s recovered vehicle. During the search, a suspected weapon linked to the crime—a machete—was found. Based on this evidence, an arrest warrant was issued against Arreola for murder. The warrant was executed while Arreola was in custody at the Bexar County Adult Detention Center, where he remains.
Ongoing Investigation
The Del Rio Police Department has reaffirmed its commitment to seeking justice for the victim and ensuring that all aspects of the case are thoroughly investigated. Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact the department.
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