Heartbreak on the East Side: San Antonio Mourns the Tragic Loss of Jordan Bocanegra in Fatal Gas Station Shooting
San Antonio, TX — June 23, 2025 — A wave of sorrow has washed over the East Side of San Antonio following the heartbreaking and violent death of 24-year-old Jordan Bocanegra, who was fatally shot on the afternoon of June 22, 2025. The tragedy unfolded near a local gas station in the 2800 block of East Houston Street, a typically busy corridor now marked by crime scene tape, flickering candles, and a growing memorial of flowers, photos, and handwritten tributes.
According to the San Antonio Police Department, officers were dispatched around 3:15 p.m. Sunday in response to multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire near the Valero gas station. Upon arrival, they discovered Jordan Bocanegra suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel rendered aid at the scene and rushed him to Brooke Army Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead.
Witnesses described the incident as a sudden and terrifying outburst of violence. “There were families out here getting gas, just going about their day,” said one local resident who declined to be named. “Then shots rang out. People ran. And now this young man is gone.”
Jordan, remembered as a kind-hearted and loyal friend, had deep roots in the East Side community. He grew up just blocks away from where his life ended. Friends and family members gathered near the scene Sunday evening, many of them overcome with grief. “He was more than just a friend, he was like a brother to us,” said Marissa Gutierrez, a lifelong friend. “Jordan had his struggles like anyone, but he was trying to do better. He didn’t deserve this.”
A candlelight vigil was held late Sunday night, where dozens of mourners came together to honor Jordan’s memory. They shared stories, held one another in grief, and demanded justice. “This can’t be another name we just add to the list,” one speaker said through tears. “He was someone’s son, someone’s friend, someone who mattered.”
Jordan Bocanegra was known for his charismatic personality, sense of humor, and fierce loyalty to those he loved. He enjoyed working on cars, listening to music, and helping his grandmother with yard work on the weekends. “He always made sure to check in,” said his aunt, Teresa Martinez. “He had a heart that cared, and a smile that lit up a room.”
The investigation into Jordan’s death is ongoing. Police have not yet released any information about a suspect or motive, but they are urging anyone with information to come forward. Surveillance footage from surrounding businesses is being reviewed, and detectives are actively following leads.
“This was not just another shooting,” said San Antonio Police Chief William McManus. “A young man’s life was stolen in broad daylight, and we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.”
For residents of the East Side, Jordan’s death is yet another painful reminder of the toll gun violence continues to take on their community. Many are calling for increased resources, more youth programs, and stronger support systems to combat the cycle of violence that has become all too familiar.
A GoFundMe page has been launched by the family to assist with funeral expenses and provide support during this time of immense grief. The fundraiser describes Jordan as “a bright soul taken far too soon” and pleads for help from the community to give him a proper farewell.
As the investigation presses on, those who loved Jordan Bocanegra are left clinging to memories, praying for answers, and vowing to keep his name alive. In the words of his cousin Luis, “They might’ve taken his body, but they’ll never take who he was to us. We won’t let his story end here.”
Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact the San Antonio Police Department’s Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers at 210-224-STOP. All tips can be submitted anonymously.