News Summary
Edward “Ron” Acosta, a 78-year-old well-known restaurateur in San Antonio, was discovered dead at his home due to multiple stab wounds following a family altercation. The prime suspect, a relative, was apprehended after fleeing the scene. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, which remembers Acosta for his significant contributions to local dining through his Tex-Mex restaurant chain.
San Antonio – A tragic incident occurred on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, when Edward “Ron” Acosta, a 78-year-old prominent local restaurateur, was found dead at his home in the 19200 block of Reata Trail, succumbing to multiple stab wounds inflicted during a family altercation. The San Antonio Police Department responded to an emergency call shortly before 11 a.m., made by a housekeeper on duty in the residence. She reported an ongoing assault and described significant blood around the victim, expressing her inability to control the bleeding.
Authorities discovered Acosta in the garage of his home, where he was pronounced dead at the scene. The prime suspect in the case is David Ruiz, a 39-year-old relative from Whittier, California. Ruiz allegedly fled the scene following the stabbing but was apprehended several hours later by deputies in Kimble County, Texas, while traveling westbound on Interstate 10. A knife was recovered at the scene, and Ruiz’s identification as the suspect was confirmed by Acosta’s son in a photo lineup.
According to police reports, the altercation that led to the fatal stabbing stemmed from a visit planned by Ruiz. Just the day prior, Ruiz had contacted Acosta’s son about staying at their San Antonio home. After learning that Ruiz was only two hours away on Monday, June 30, Acosta invited him to stay over, and family members discussed plans for a gathering later that day in a group chat. This initial friendly communication took a tragic turn, escalating into violence.
San Antonio Police Chief William McManus characterized the incident as a “high-profile” murder in a news briefing later that day. Investigators have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat related to this event, as they continue to gather evidence and unravel the details surrounding the altercation and stabbing.
Edward “Ron” Acosta was not only the victim of this tragic incident but also a notable figure in the local community as the founder of Las Palapas, a widely recognized Tex-Mex restaurant chain established in 1981. With over 24 locations throughout San Antonio and Central Texas, Las Palapas has played a significant role in the region’s culinary landscape, drawing in patrons with its beloved menu items and vibrant atmosphere. Acosta’s contributions to the local dining scene have left a lasting impact on the community.
The homicide occurred in the Stone Oak area, a suburb located just outside Loop 1604, known for its family-friendly environment and affluent residences. Authorities have since commenced a comprehensive investigation into the stabbing, with homicide detectives actively pursuing further details to understand the motive and circumstances leading to the fatal altercation.
As the investigation develops, the San Antonio community, especially those familiar with Acosta and his restaurant chain, grapples with the shock and grief stemming from the violent loss of a prominent figure. Family members and friends are mourning the sudden passing of a beloved individual who, for decades, shared his passion for food and hospitality with countless customers across Central Texas. The community is left to reflect on both the life of Edward “Ron” Acosta and the troubling familial violence that led to his untimely death.
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Additional Resources
- KENS 5: High Profile Murder in Stone Oak
- Wikipedia: San Antonio
- KSAT: SAPD Investigating Murder on North Side
- Google Search: Edward Ron Acosta
- Express News: San Antonio North Side Murder
- Google Scholar: Las Palapas Restaurants
- SA Current: Founder of Las Palapas Stabbed
- Encyclopedia Britannica: San Antonio Crime
- Fox San Antonio: Police Update on North Side Murder
- Google News: Texas Murder Investigation
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.
