Spike in Gun Violence Raises Concerns in San Antonio

Police responding to a shooting incident in San Antonio

News Summary

Recent shooting incidents in San Antonio have left multiple injuries and fatalities, alarming residents about public safety. Notable events include a fatal shooting at a bar, the killing of a young woman, and an attack on a security guard. Investigations are ongoing as law enforcement calls for community vigilance.

San Antonio – A series of recent shooting incidents in San Antonio have resulted in multiple injuries and fatalities, raising concerns about public safety in the area. The most notable incident occurred early Sunday morning at the Stout House bar, where 33-year-old Jordan Vasquez was killed during an altercation that escalated into gunfire.

The shooting happened around 2 a.m. in the parking lot of the bar located on Potranco Road near Hunt Lane. Witnesses report that Vasquez and his friends became involved in a heated argument with another group. According to preliminary reports, members of Vasquez’s group retrieved firearms from their vehicles, which led to the exchange of gunfire. A 24-year-old security guard, who was on duty at the bar, returned fire and struck Vasquez in the head. He was quickly transported to a hospital but was later pronounced dead.

As of now, law enforcement officials have not disclosed whether any charges will be filed in connection with this case, as the investigation is still ongoing.

In a separate incident, a 26-year-old man named Damen Carrillo was arrested for allegedly shooting and killing his ex-girlfriend, Ghabriella Barrera, 24, in February. Barrera was discovered with multiple gunshot wounds inside her car, which had crashed on February 15. It was reported that Carrillo threatened Barrera the day before the incident, stating he would kill her if she did not drop family violence charges against him.

Carrillo has a documented history of violence toward Barrera, having been previously arrested for assaulting her and subjected to a no-contact order following his release from jail. Investigators identified text messages from Carrillo threatening Barrera on the day of her death. Authorities linked him to the crime scene through shell casings found within his vehicle and security footage that captured his truck at Barrera’s workplace. He is currently charged with murder and has a bond set at $300,000.

In another separate episode, Wilmer Vladmir Ortega Ruiz was arrested after allegedly shooting a security guard, Jimmy Friesenhahn, at El Patio Sports Bar around 12:30 a.m. Following a struggle over a firearm, Friesenhahn sustained serious injuries, including two shots to his bulletproof vest and a shot to his neck. He underwent spinal cord surgery, with his family expressing uncertainty about his recovery.

Additional Incidents

The recent wave of violence does not end there. In December, Khadija Derry was shot while sitting in her car in Converse. A juvenile suspect, who has connections to a local gang known for various crimes including armed robbery and homicide, was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service concerning her murder. The second suspect in Derry’s case was killed in April 2024.

Furthermore, another woman was shot in the head during an argument with her boyfriend on Spring Lark Drive in Northwest San Antonio. Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident involved a struggle over a gun and is being looked into as potentially self-inflicted. The boyfriend has been detained for questioning as part of the investigation.

These incidents highlight a disturbing trend of gun violence in San Antonio, prompting law enforcement officials to urge the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The authorities continue to investigate each case thoroughly to bring those responsible to justice and restore a sense of security to the residents. As investigations continue, community members are encouraged to come forward with any information that may assist in these matters.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

San Antonio Police Arrest Suspect in Security Guard Shooting
San Antonio Sees Surge in Violent Incidents Involving Stabbing and Gunfire
Restaurants in San Antonio Celebrate Mother’s Day Weekend
Deadly Bar Fight in San Antonio Leaves One Dead
San Antonio Experiences Series of Tragic Incidents
Fatal Shooting Outside The Stout House in San Antonio
San Antonio Shooting Leaves Security Guard Hospitalized
Shooting Outside Bar in San Antonio Leaves One Dead
14-Year-Old Simon Cuevas Killed in San Antonio Shooting
Tragic Outcome in San Antonio Dementia Patient Case

Additional Resources

STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER

The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!
Advertising Opportunity:

Stay Connected

More Updates

Families skating at the Pearl Ice Rink in San Antonio

San Antonio’s Pearl Introduces Holiday Ice Rink

San Antonio, TX, December 5, 2025 This holiday season, San Antonio’s Pearl district introduces its first-ever outdoor ice skating rink, enhancing community festivities. Open from late

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Sign Up Now and get your local business listed!