Warrant Issued for Teen Suspect After Triple Fatal Shooting in Nacogdoches
NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS — Police in Nacogdoches have issued an arrest warrant for a 17-year-old suspect following a triple homicide that left three people dead Friday morning on Hackberry Street.
Authorities confirmed that Hector Cuarenta, 17, is wanted on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in connection with the shooting. Police described the incident as targeted and isolated, assuring residents there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Three Victims Identified
The Nacogdoches Police Department identified two of the victims as Dequavious LeCharles Brooks, 17, and Edward Alejandro Rivera, 18, both residents of Nacogdoches. The third victim’s name has not yet been released pending notification of family members.
Police said they responded to reports of gunfire in the 1000 block of Hackberry Street around 10:22 a.m. Friday. When officers arrived, they found two victims inside a black car and a third lying in the street.
One victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other two were transported to a hospital where they later died.
Suspect Still at Large
Investigators believe Cuarenta fled the scene before officers arrived. As of Friday evening, he remains at large.
Authorities have urged the public to contact Crime Stoppers at 936-560-4636 if they have any information about the suspect’s whereabouts.
“We definitely want the public’s help and any witness information of people who were in the area at the time or have home security footage,” said Assistant Chief of Patrol Dan Taravella.
Police Say Shooting Was Targeted
Police emphasized that this appears to be an isolated and deliberate attack between individuals who knew one another.
“We don’t know the exact motive, but we know enough to determine that this was an incident specific to these individuals,” Taravella said. “We don’t feel there’s any danger to the neighborhood or the public.”
The Nacogdoches Police Department said additional officers and detectives were deployed throughout the day to gather witness statements and review surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses.
Local School Temporarily Secured
As a precaution, Fredonia Elementary School was placed on a secure status shortly after the shooting. Administrators confirmed there was no direct threat to the campus, and classes later resumed under controlled dismissal procedures.
Community in Shock
The incident has shaken the tight-knit East Texas community, where violent crime is relatively rare.
Neighbors described the sudden burst of gunfire as alarming, with several reporting they heard multiple shots in rapid succession before police sirens filled the area.
As the search for Cuarenta continues, police are reminding residents to stay alert but calm, noting that all available resources are being used to locate the suspect.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Nacogdoches Police Department or Crime Stoppers immediately.
Stay with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for updates on this developing story.
