Teen Tragically Killed After School Fight Turns Deadly: 14-Year-Old Simon Julian Cuevas III Identified as Victim in Shooting; SAPD Seeks Suspect

A 14-year-old student is dead and a suspect remains at large following a tragic shooting that took place just steps from Brewer Academy on San Antonio’s West Side. The victim, identified by the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office as Simon Julian Cuevas III, was killed Tuesday afternoon after a fight among a group of students escalated into gun violence.

According to the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD), officers responded to reports of a shooting around 2:00 p.m. at the intersection of South Elmendorf and Merida Street. Investigators say the incident stemmed from an altercation involving seven to eight juveniles, who had just left school for the day.

Police say the group engaged in a physical fight, during which one individual drew a firearm and shot Simon. The scene unfolded just outside Brewer Academy’s campus, coinciding with student dismissal.

Emergency services arrived quickly and found Simon gravely wounded. He was transported to a nearby hospital by San Antonio EMS, but despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Police Investigation Underway

SAPD Chief William P. McManus confirmed in a press briefing that the shooting appears to be an isolated incident. No prior disturbances were reported inside the school earlier that day, and the police do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public.

“We are actively working to identify and locate the suspect,” said Chief McManus. “We are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. We encourage anyone with information to come forward.”

The shooter, who is believed to be another teenager involved in the fight, has not yet been identified by name, and no arrests have been made as of Thursday morning.

Victim Remembered by Family and Community

Simon Julian Cuevas III was described by family and friends as a respectful, kind-hearted young man who had a bright future ahead of him. A freshman at Brewer Academy, Simon had aspirations of becoming a mechanical engineer and loved working with his hands.

“He was the light of our lives,” said Simon’s aunt, Maria Cuevas, speaking on behalf of the grieving family. “He didn’t deserve this. He was just walking home from school. We are devastated.”

Community members have created a growing memorial of candles, flowers, and handwritten notes near the site of the shooting. Many students returned Wednesday to pay their respects, some still wearing their school uniforms, visibly shaken by the loss of their classmate.

“This should never happen to a child—especially right after school,” said Brewer Academy Principal Angela Ruiz. “Simon was a bright student who always came to class with a smile. Our entire school community is mourning.”

Grief and Support Services

In response to the tragedy, San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) announced that grief counselors are available for students and staff at Brewer Academy and surrounding schools.

“We know how difficult this is for everyone,” said SAISD Superintendent Jaime Aquino. “We will continue to support our students, staff, and Simon’s family in every way we can.”

Local advocacy groups and city leaders are calling for increased intervention programs to prevent youth violence. Councilwoman Teri Castillo, who represents the district where the shooting occurred, emphasized the need for community investment.

“We need to ensure our young people have the resources and support to resolve conflict without violence,” she said. “This tragedy is a call to action.”

What’s Next?

As the investigation continues, SAPD is urging witnesses to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers at 210-224-STOP (7867).

Funeral and memorial arrangements for Simon Julian Cuevas III are pending. His family has asked for privacy as they prepare to say goodbye to their beloved son, nephew, and friend.

Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact SAPD or Crime Stoppers.

“Our detectives are working tirelessly to find the individual responsible,” Chief McManus said. “Justice will be served.”