GARLAND, Texas — Three men have been arrested in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred early on the morning of July 31, 2025, at a motel located in the 12700 block of LBJ Freeway in Garland, Texas. The victim, identified as 48-year-old Santiago Lopez Morales, was shot and killed in the parking lot of the motel, and later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Details of the Shooting
At 5:15 a.m. on July 31, Garland Police Department officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of a shooting in the motel’s parking lot. Upon arrival, officers found Santiago Lopez Morales, a resident of Las Vegas, suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite immediate medical intervention, he was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was sadly declared deceased.
Identification of Suspects
Following the tragic incident, Garland Police detectives launched an investigation, which led them to identify and arrest three individuals in connection with the shooting. Authorities believe the shooting was part of a larger series of events involving a robbery at another motel earlier in the day.
The arrested suspects are:
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Yosguar Aponte Jimenez, 20, charged with capital murder. His bond is set at $1.5 million.
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Jesus De Nazareth Bellorin-Guzman, 23, charged with capital murder and aggravated robbery. His bond is set at $2.2 million.
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Jose Luis Trivino-Cruz, 35, arrested for capital murder, aggravated robbery, and indecent assault. His bond is set at $3.25 million.
The Connection to Earlier Robbery
According to Garland Police, the suspects involved in the shooting were also linked to a robbery at a different motel earlier on the same day. The robbery and the subsequent shooting appear to be connected by a disturbance that escalated in the motel parking lot, leading to the tragic death of Santiago Lopez Morales.
The police have not disclosed the full details of the robbery or the events that unfolded earlier in the day, but witness statements and evidence gathered at the crime scene have contributed to the arrests of Aponte Jimenez, Bellorin-Guzman, and Trivino-Cruz.
Police Investigation and Findings
Early findings from the investigation suggest that the shooting resulted from a disturbance in the parking lot of the motel. However, Garland Police have not released further details about the circumstances that led to the altercation or the exact motive for the shooting.
“We are continuing to piece together the details of this case and are working to determine all the factors that led to this tragic loss of life,” said a Garland Police spokesperson.
Community Impact
The shooting has shaken the Garland community, with many residents and motel guests left questioning the safety of the area. Although Garland Police have confirmed that the suspects have been arrested, there are growing concerns over the violent nature of the crime and its impact on local businesses and residents.
A local business owner near the motel, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed shock over the incident: “It’s such a sad thing. We never thought something like this could happen so close to us. It’s a reminder of how much we need to look out for one another.”
Legal Proceedings
The three suspects remain in custody, with each facing serious charges related to the shooting and robbery. The legal proceedings will unfold in the coming weeks, as the Garland Police Department continues to gather evidence and build their case.
Yosguar Aponte Jimenez, Jesus De Nazareth Bellorin-Guzman, and Jose Luis Trivino-Cruz are expected to face court hearings soon, with the full scope of the charges and evidence against them being presented in court.
Ongoing Investigation and Call for Public Help
While the suspects have been apprehended, Garland Police continue to investigate the shooting and its related circumstances. They are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation.
“Anyone who witnessed the events or has any information about this incident should reach out to us,” said Garland Police Detective. “We want to ensure that justice is served for the victim and his family.”
Residents who may have information can contact Garland Police at (972) 485-4840, or they can submit anonymous tips via Crime Stoppers.
Conclusion
The death of Santiago Lopez Morales in this senseless shooting serves as another reminder of the dangers of escalating violence and crime in local communities. As Garland Police continue their investigation and proceed with legal action against the suspects, the community remains in mourning for the tragic loss of life.
The arrests of the suspects, combined with the ongoing investigation, will help provide answers for the victim’s family, while the case continues to unfold. The Garland community now waits for justice and seeks to prevent further incidents of this nature.