Del Rio, Texas – A man has been arrested following a shooting that took place on Wednesday night, May 7, 2025, in the intersection of Avenue G and East 12th Street, a residential area in Del Rio. The Del Rio Police Department (DRPD) reported that officers responded to the scene around 10:32 p.m., where they discovered an adult male victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen. The incident has led to an active investigation and the arrest of 36-year-old Eric Castillo in connection with the shooting.

The Incident: The Scene of the Shooting

According to the police, officers arrived at the scene of the shooting in the 800 block of East 11th Street, an area known for its mix of residential homes and businesses. Upon arrival, law enforcement found a male victim who had sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Emergency medical personnel quickly arrived at the scene and transported the victim to Val Verde Regional Medical Center, where he received treatment for his injuries.

The shooting occurred late in the evening, which raised questions about the circumstances leading to the violent confrontation. Evidence recovered from the crime scene included damaged vehicle parts and several shell casings, which indicate that the shooting may have involved a moving vehicle. The discovery of these items suggests that the altercation may have escalated quickly, and the situation may have been related to a potential road rage incident or another form of confrontation between the individuals involved.

Surveillance Footage: Key Evidence in Identifying the Suspect

Following the initial response, Del Rio Police began to gather evidence from the scene and surrounding areas. One of the key pieces of evidence that helped identify the suspect was surveillance footage that showed the vehicle involved in the shooting. The footage provided crucial details that allowed investigators to trace the suspect’s vehicle and initiate a search.

The vehicle was later located at a U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint in Uvalde, Texas, on May 8, 2025. It was detained by law enforcement authorities at the checkpoint, and the sole occupant of the vehicle was identified as Eric Castillo, a 36-year-old man. The vehicle was being driven by a relative of the owner, who had been operating the car at the time it was detained.

Eric Castillo: Arrest and Interrogation

Eric Castillo was taken into custody and transported for questioning. According to police reports, Castillo was interviewed by investigators but refused to provide any details regarding the incident. Despite his silence during the interrogation, Castillo was formally arrested on charges of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, a serious felony charge that stems from the nature of the attack and the use of a firearm.

The Del Rio Police Department has not released additional details regarding the motive behind the shooting or any connection between Castillo and the victim. It is unclear whether the individuals involved knew each other prior to the incident or whether this was a random act of violence. Investigators are continuing to review the surveillance footage and other evidence in order to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the shooting.

The Victim: A Look at the Injured Man’s Condition

The victim, whose identity has not been publicly released by law enforcement, was transported to Val Verde Regional Medical Center following the incident. At the time of the initial police report, the condition of the victim was not disclosed, but it is known that he was treated for a gunshot wound to the abdomen. The severity of the injury suggests that the victim’s condition may have been critical at the time of the shooting, though further updates on his health have not yet been provided.

The victim’s recovery will likely be a significant factor in the ongoing investigation, and his ability to provide statements regarding the events leading up to the shooting could help clarify the nature of the altercation. If the victim is able to provide a detailed account of the incident, it may lead to more clarity regarding the circumstances of the shooting and the relationship between the victim and the suspect.

Investigation and Law Enforcement Response

The Del Rio Police Department is continuing its investigation into the shooting and has asked the public to come forward with any additional information that could assist in the case. The department is reviewing all evidence, including the surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic findings, to build a clearer picture of what transpired.

The use of surveillance cameras in the area has been pivotal in identifying the suspect’s vehicle, and authorities are continuing to rely on technology and community cooperation to gather additional leads. Local law enforcement has urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the Del Rio Police Department directly or to submit tips anonymously.

This shooting incident highlights the importance of community involvement in helping law enforcement solve violent crimes. As the investigation continues, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that might be connected to the incident.

Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon: Legal Implications for Castillo

Eric Castillo’s arrest for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon carries serious legal implications. Aggravated assault is classified as a felony and is defined as an assault that involves the use of a weapon or the intent to cause severe injury. In this case, Castillo allegedly used a firearm to injure the victim, which raises the charge to an aggravated level due to the weapon’s involvement.

If convicted, Castillo could face significant prison time, depending on the severity of the victim’s injuries and any other factors that may be presented during the trial. In addition to the criminal charges, Castillo may also be subject to civil suits from the victim or their family, especially if the victim’s injuries are long-term or permanent.

Law enforcement will continue to investigate Castillo’s background and any possible prior offenses that may impact the case. It is unclear whether Castillo has any previous criminal history or if this is his first interaction with law enforcement.

Community Impact and Public Safety

The shooting in Del Rio has had a significant impact on the local community. While Del Rio is generally considered a safe city, incidents like this serve as reminders of the unpredictable nature of violence and the risks posed by firearms in public spaces. The fact that the shooting occurred at night and involved a high-speed pursuit suggests that this was not a random act but rather one that escalated quickly, possibly involving an altercation between the individuals involved.

Local residents have expressed their concerns about the increasing number of violent crimes in the area, including shootings and assaults. This incident, coupled with the use of a deadly weapon, has sparked discussions about gun violence, public safety, and the need for effective measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Community leaders and law enforcement are now focusing on strategies to increase awareness about the dangers of violent behavior and to provide resources for those at risk of engaging in such acts.

The Role of the U.S. Border Patrol in the Investigation

One important aspect of this case is the involvement of the U.S. Border Patrol in detaining the suspect’s vehicle at the Uvalde checkpoint. This highlights the ongoing cooperation between local, state, and federal agencies in addressing criminal activity in border regions. Uvalde, located in southern Texas, is known for its proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border, and law enforcement agencies in the area often work together to address crime and ensure public safety.

The U.S. Border Patrol’s role in apprehending Castillo demonstrates the efficiency of coordinated law enforcement efforts. By working together, agencies are able to quickly identify and locate suspects, preventing them from fleeing or escaping justice.

The Ongoing Investigation: Looking Ahead

As the investigation into the shooting continues, authorities are expected to release more details about the events leading up to the incident, the motivations behind the shooting, and any new developments that arise. The Del Rio Police Department has vowed to pursue justice for the victim and hold the suspect accountable for their actions.

The community remains on edge, hoping for answers and closure as the case progresses. Local leaders and residents have expressed their support for law enforcement and their desire to see the investigation concluded with a fair and just outcome.

Conclusion: A Community Seeking Justice

The shooting on May 7, 2025, in Del Rio, Texas, has sparked a wave of concern throughout the community. The incident has led to the arrest of Eric Castillo on charges of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and the investigation continues as law enforcement works to uncover more details about the motive behind the shooting. As the case unfolds, the hope is that justice will be served and that the victim will receive the support and recognition they deserve. The community stands united in their quest for answers and in their commitment to public safety.