A Community Searching for Answers
Robstown continues to grapple with heartbreak after the shooting death of 14-year-old Shawn Sanchez on Nov. 18 at the Figueroa Square Apartments. As the investigation moves forward, police say they are one step closer to justice after arresting a third suspect linked to the case. The incident has shaken the community, prompting urgent discussions about youth violence, retaliation, and the growing concern about minors accessing firearms.
Third Suspect Arrested After Days of Investigation
On Nov. 21 at 4 p.m., officers from the Robstown Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division and Organized Crime Unit, supported by deputies from the Nueces County Constable Precinct 5, arrested 22-year-old Dominic Guzman. The update came through a Facebook Live video posted by Police Chief Mike Tamez, who addressed the public with a mix of relief and resolve.
“It’s been a long, difficult week, but we’re glad that we are moving in a direction where we are going to get some justice for the family and for Mr. Sanchez,” Tamez said in the broadcast.
According to authorities, Guzman’s arrest is directly connected to Sanchez’s killing, marking a significant step in a fast-moving investigation supported by witness statements, surveillance footage, and coordinated law-enforcement efforts.
How the Deadly Shooting Unfolded
Details from the Initial Response
During a news conference on Nov. 19, Tamez recounted the critical moments following a 3:50 p.m. shooting call at the Figueroa Square Apartments on Ruben Chavez Road. Officers arrived to find Sanchez with six gunshot wounds, the tragic result of what investigators believe was a targeted, retaliatory attack.
A Possible Motive: Retaliation
Police say the shooting may tie to a Nov. 16 incident in which someone shot a 16-year-old boy three times on West Avenue C in Robstown. Investigators believe the group of suspects retaliated against Sanchez because he knew the suspect involved in that prior shooting.
According to Tamez, 18-year-old Elias Eric Rivera, a student at Robstown ISD, played a key role in luring Sanchez outside. Rivera contacted the teen—either by text or phone—while Sanchez was visiting his girlfriend at the apartment complex. When Sanchez stepped out, Rivera’s silver truck pulled up. Three men exited the vehicle, confronted Sanchez, and two opened fire.
Weapons Recovered and Warrant Executed
Later that evening, police secured a warrant to search Rivera’s truck. Inside, officers found multiple firearms: two pistols, two AR-platform rifles, spent shell casings, and even a fully intact slug that investigators say will be vital in the forensic analysis.
Tamez confirmed that police recovered both weapons that the suspects used in the killing.
Earlier Arrests and Search for More Suspects
Before Guzman’s arrest, officers had already taken two people into custody:
- Elias Eric Rivera, arrested Nov. 18 for possession of a controlled substance.
- Authorities detained a 14-year-old juvenile at the Juvenile Justice Center in connection with the shooting.
Initially, investigators believed as many as three additional suspects may be involved. However, officials have not yet identified or questioned other individuals linked to the case.
Police are also working to determine how the suspects gained access to the firearms used in both shootings. Tamez said police will release more information soon as the investigation progresses.
Community Concerns: Youth Violence and Curfew Laws
Chief Addresses Curfew Rumors
In the same Facebook Live update, Chief Tamez addressed concerns that local police were not enforcing juvenile curfews. He clarified that House Bill 1819, which took effect on Sept. 1, 2023, prohibits Texas cities from enforcing youth curfew ordinances.
“We will not allow our officers to violate the law simply to detain somebody with the excuse of furthering an investigation,” Tamez emphasized. However, he reassured residents that officers will continue patrols and stop individuals when there is reasonable suspicion.
Commitment to Safety
Tamez closed with a firm message to parents, teens, and community members: police will remain aggressive in addressing youth gun crimes.
“We’re going to be up, going after all these kids with guns, and we’re going to be relentless about it.”
As Robstown searches for healing, the city watches closely, hoping each new development brings the community closer to justice and long-term safety.