Tragic Temple Shooting Claims Lives of Two Local Teens: Marcos Humberto Anaya Jr., 17, and Tristan Deon Martin, 18, Identified as Victims in Early Morning Gunfire on North 1st Street; Community Grieves as Police Intensify Investigation
Temple, Texas – April 14, 2025 — The Temple Police Department has released the identities of the two teenagers killed in a deadly shooting early Sunday morning that has left the local community shocked and grieving. The victims, Marcos Humberto Anaya Jr., 17, and Tristan Deon Martin, 18, were both residents of Temple and are being mourned by family, friends, and neighbors as the investigation into the shooting intensifies.
Deadly Gunfire Erupts in the Early Morning Hours
The shooting occurred at approximately 4:09 a.m. on Sunday, April 13, in the 1900 block of North 1st Street. Temple Police officers were dispatched to the area following multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire. Upon arrival, they discovered both victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures at the scene, but tragically, both young men were pronounced dead shortly after. Witnesses in the neighborhood reported hearing a series of gunshots followed by the sound of a vehicle speeding away.
“We responded quickly, but unfortunately, both victims had already sustained fatal injuries,” said Temple Police Chief Shawn Reynolds in a press briefing Monday morning. “We are devoting all available resources to this case and are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.”
Victims Remembered as Promising, Beloved Young Men
Friends and family of Marcos Anaya Jr. and Tristan Martin have taken to social media to express their heartbreak and disbelief. Vigils are already being organized in Temple to honor the lives of the two teens, both of whom were known to be ambitious, close-knit with their families, and well-liked among their peers.
Marcos, a 17-year-old high school student, was described by classmates as outgoing and full of energy. “He had a smile that lit up a room,” said one classmate. “He loved music, football, and always looked out for his younger siblings.”
Tristan, who had just turned 18, had graduated last year and was preparing to enroll in a local trade school. “He was driven, respectful, and had big dreams,” his aunt said. “He had so much ahead of him. This is a devastating loss for all of us.”
Police Seeking Public Assistance in Active Investigation
The Temple Police Department has confirmed that the investigation remains active and that detectives are following several leads. However, no arrests have been made as of Monday afternoon, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
“We are asking members of the public who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in the area around 4 a.m. Sunday morning to contact our department,” said Chief Reynolds. “Even small details—such as surveillance footage, a vehicle description, or anonymous tips—could help bring closure to these families.”
The motive behind the shooting has not yet been determined, and investigators are still working to establish whether the attack was targeted or random. Forensic teams have been canvassing the neighborhood and collecting evidence from the scene, including shell casings and surveillance video from nearby homes and businesses.
Community Reaction: Grief, Fear, and Calls for Peace
The fatal shooting has left the Temple community grappling with grief and raising serious concerns about violence among local youth. City Council member Lydia Walker issued a statement Monday expressing her condolences to the families and urging community members to come together in this difficult time.
“This is a heartbreaking and senseless act of violence that has stolen two young lives and left families shattered,” Walker said. “We must work together—not only to seek justice but to address the root causes that lead to such tragedies. Our hearts are with the loved ones of Marcos and Tristan.”
Local churches and youth organizations have also stepped forward to offer counseling and support services for students and residents impacted by the tragedy. Temple High School has confirmed that grief counselors will be on-site this week for students and faculty in mourning.
Ongoing Investigation and Contact Information
The Temple Police Department is encouraging anyone with information related to the case to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 254-298-5500 or submit anonymous tips to Bell County Crime Stoppers at 254-526-8477 (TIPS) or online at bellcountycrimestoppers.com.
As the investigation continues, both families are expected to announce funeral arrangements in the coming days. A candlelight vigil is tentatively being planned at a local park this week, with community members invited to honor the memory of Marcos Anaya Jr. and Tristan Martin.