San Antonio – Jimmy Friesenhahn, a Marine combat veteran who was left paralyzed after being shot while working as a security guard, will not be able to testify in the upcoming Bexar County trial of his alleged attacker. His sister, Becky Borjon, told Fox News Digital that a severe health setback forced him back to the hospital.
Health setback forces hospitalization
Friesenhahn has been in the hospital for at least a week following complications from a blood clot that developed after surgery on August 28. Borjon said he had previously spent three weeks in inpatient rehab before the recent setback, adding, “We encountered some medical setbacks, and he’s been hospitalized for a week now.”
Trial was set for next week
The trial of Wilmer Vladimir Ruiz Ortega, a 29‑year‑old Honduran national accused of shooting Friesenhahn at El Patio Sports Bar on May 4, 2025, was scheduled to begin on September 20 with jury selection. Friesenhahn was expected to take the stand and testify on his own behalf.
“Jimmy was expected to appear and testify on his own behalf, and we are still hoping he will be able to do that,” Borjon said, expressing the family’s desire for his participation despite his condition.
Details of the shooting
According to police, Friesenhahn saw a firearm in Ortega’s pocket and tried to stop him from entering the venue. A struggle ensued, during which Ortega allegedly fired multiple rounds. Friesenhahn was struck twice in his bullet‑proof vest and once in the neck. The neck wound left him paralyzed, unable to speak, and dependent on full‑time medical care.
Accused’s criminal history and immigration status
Ortega has been charged with aggravated assault against a security officer and illegal entry into the United States. He also faces federal immigration proceedings. Court records show a pattern of repeated offenses: a DWI arrest in October 2020, a probation‑violation arrest in August 2023, and multiple failures to appear in court, including a November 2024 arrest.
Family members criticized law‑enforcement and the district attorney’s office for allowing Ortega to remain free. Emmanuel Martinez, Friesenhahn’s brother‑in‑law, said, “At that point, the DA’s office should have complied with removal orders and turned him over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.” Borjon added, “I’m not opposed to immigration, but there is a process set in place for a reason. This guy was arrested multiple times, released on bond, and never reported. Those warrants should have been acted upon, and maybe we wouldn’t be here today. This guy should have been returned to his country.”
Family’s resolve
Despite the tragic circumstances, the Friesenhahn family remains determined to see the case prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Borjon said, “Unfortunately, we don’t see this as a road to recovery because there is no recovering from an injury like this. We see it as the beginning of a lifelong fight. My brother will never walk again. He will never be able to get married or raise a family.”
The Bexar County District Attorney’s Office declined to comment on the status of the case.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
