EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — As police investigate a deadly shooting that happened late Friday evening, Oct. 4 at a Whataburger in West El Paso, the family of the man killed recounts what they witnessed.
The El Paso Police Department (EPPD) said Edgar Gabriel Lucero, 37, from Sunland Park, New Mexico, died from injuries sustained in the shooting.
Lucero’s family told KTSM that he was at Whataburger with his stepchildren and his niece.
KTSM spoke to his niece and stepchildren who did not want to be identified. His niece said that as they entered the drive-thru, they saw a white Ford crash into another car, adding that a few moments later the same white Ford hit their car.
“He went to the car, and he was like, ‘What’s up? Like, what’s wrong with you?’ My uncle did get a little aggressive, but it was because he had his three kids in the car. He was angry,” Lucero’s niece said.
According to the family, Lucero grabbed a hammer and hit the windows of the white Ford. The driver then shot twice at Lucero, killing him. However, EPPD has not confirmed these details yet.
“Self-defense would have been if Edgar would have laid hands on him. He laid hands on the vehicle, not on him. So, I also want them to, well, he deserves to be put away,” Monica Romero, Lucero’s fiancé said.
At this time, no one has been charged directly in the shooting, according to EPPD.
Although a few hours after the shooting, a 45-year-old man identified as Hector Manuel Lopez Jr. was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) at the scene. Court documents state he was somehow involved that night, but his involvement is unclear.
A GoFundMe was made to raise money for Lucero’s family and funeral expenses.
KTSM also reached out to EPPD about road rage and prevention, they sent the following statement:
“The El Paso Police Department would like to remind the public that aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic and engaging in confrontations with other drivers, can lead to serious accidents and injuries. This not only endangers the individuals involved but also puts innocent people at risk. We urge all motorists to stay calm and composed while driving. If you find yourself in a situation that escalates, it is best to avoid confrontation and report aggressive drivers to law enforcement. We want to ensure that our roads are safe for everyone. Courtesy behind the wheel can make a significant difference, please drive responsibly.”
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