SAPD Accuses 17-Year-Old Suspect in Connection with Murder of Lamarcus Willis, Teen Killed in Drive-By Shooting Outside Apartment Complex This Week
The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) has identified and arrested a 17-year-old male suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Lamarcus Willis, who was gunned down in a drive-by attack outside his apartment complex earlier this week on the city’s West Side.
The shooting occurred on the evening of Tuesday, April 1, 2025, in the 1800 block of Ruiz Street, near South Zarzamora Street. According to police, Lamarcus Willis was standing near the parking lot of the Vista Verde Apartments when a dark-colored vehicle slowed down and gunfire erupted. Witnesses reported hearing at least five shots before the vehicle sped off.
Willis was struck multiple times and collapsed at the scene. Paramedics responded quickly and transported him to University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead from his injuries less than an hour later. The shooting left residents in shock, with many calling for increased police presence and community support in the area.
Break in the Case
Detectives from SAPD’s Homicide Unit began working the case immediately, canvassing the area for witnesses and reviewing security camera footage from nearby buildings. Several witnesses were able to provide descriptions of the vehicle involved and a possible suspect seen in the area prior to the shooting.
According to SAPD spokesperson Officer Angela Garcia, the suspect was identified through a combination of video evidence and anonymous tips submitted to Crime Stoppers. “This was a targeted shooting. We believe the suspect and the victim knew each other, and we are investigating the motive further,” Garcia said in a press briefing Friday morning.
On the morning of April 4, officers executed a search warrant at a residence in the Edgewood neighborhood and took the 17-year-old suspect into custody without incident. The teen, whose name is being withheld due to his age, is currently being held at the Bexar County Juvenile Detention Center. He is charged with one count of first-degree murder.
SAPD has stated they are consulting with the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office to determine whether the suspect will be tried as an adult. If tried and convicted in adult court, he could face a life sentence.
Family Devastated by Loss
Lamarcus Willis, a recent graduate of Lanier High School, was described by family and friends as a bright, ambitious young man who hoped to attend San Antonio College in the fall to study business. His mother, Tamika Willis, spoke through tears during a community vigil held on April 3.
“He was my only son, my baby,” she said. “Lamarcus didn’t deserve this. He had plans, dreams. Now all we have are memories and pain. I just want justice.”
The vigil drew dozens of people, many of whom lit candles and released balloons in his memory. Community leaders, including Pastor Eric Johnson of the New Life Ministries Church, urged the city to do more to address youth violence and mental health in underserved neighborhoods.
“We can’t keep losing our sons to gun violence,” Johnson said. “This is not just a family tragedy—this is a community tragedy.”
Investigation Continues
Although the arrest marks a major step forward, police say their investigation is still active. They are working to determine if the suspect acted alone or if others were involved in the planning or execution of the drive-by.
“We’re looking into all aspects of the case, including potential accomplices, gang affiliations, or previous altercations that might have led to the shooting,” said Detective Maria Esquivel, lead investigator on the case. “We want to ensure every angle is covered and justice is fully served.”
Authorities are encouraging anyone with further information to contact SAPD’s Homicide Unit at (210) 207-7635 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at (210) 224-STOP.
A Community in Mourning
The tragedy has reignited conversations in San Antonio about rising youth violence and access to firearms. City Councilwoman Adriana Rocha Garcia, who represents the district where the shooting occurred, called for increased funding for community intervention programs.
“We must take a proactive approach to prevent these incidents before they happen,” Rocha Garcia said in a statement. “This means more after-school programs, more mentorship, more mental health resources, and stricter enforcement on illegal weapons.”
As the city mourns the loss of another young life, many are left grappling with the senseless nature of the crime and the painful absence left behind in the Willis family.
“This arrest is just the beginning,” said Lamarcus’ cousin, Darnell Smith. “We need to keep pushing for change. We can’t let Lamarcus’ death be just another statistic.”