San Antonio – In the early hours of Friday, a police chase on the far West Side ended in a deadly confrontation. Chief Jesse Salame said officers from the Street Crimes Unit pursued a vehicle that entered the Alamo Ranch area and stopped near a gated community at Lone Star Parkway and Wild Pine.
Chase and attempted entry
The driver, a 21‑year‑old man, tried to drive through the gated entrance but was blocked by the gate. The passenger, identified as a 36‑year‑old male, exited the vehicle and attempted to enter a code into the gate’s keypad. An Eagle helicopter assisted officers in locating the vehicle, allowing an officer to approach the passenger.
Officer’s response
According to Salame, the passenger drew a gun as the officer approached. The officer, identified as Officer M. Aranda, who has five years of service with the San Antonio Police Department, opened fire and struck the passenger. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.
Driver’s self‑inflicted wound
Salame also reported that the driver produced a firearm and intentionally shot himself. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.
Other occupants and ongoing investigations
Inside the back seat was 20‑year‑old Destiny Nicole De La Rosa. She was not injured and was taken to police headquarters for questioning. Police disclosed that De La Rosa has outstanding felony warrants unrelated to the chase.
The San Antonio Police Department’s shooting team and the internal affairs unit are conducting separate but concurrent investigations. Findings will be forwarded to the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office for independent review.
Community resources
Authorities reminded residents that help is available for anyone struggling with mental‑health issues or suicidal thoughts. Call 988 or text TALK to 741‑741. Additional resources include the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at 210‑223‑7233 (SAFE) or 800‑316‑9241, with a text option to NAMI at 741‑741.
This incident underscores the challenges faced by law‑enforcement officers tasked with protecting neighborhoods while confronting violent threats. The department’s swift response, aided by aerial support, reflects ongoing efforts to maintain public safety on San Antonio’s West Side.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
