McAllen, Texas, December 30, 2025
The murder of Eddy Betancourt, a respected businessman in McAllen, has sent shockwaves through the community. Authorities are searching for the prime suspect, Reynaldo Mata-Rios, as they investigate the circumstances surrounding Betancourt’s death. This tragic incident has sparked conversations about safety and the importance of law enforcement in protecting local businesses.
Murder of Businessman Eddy Betancourt Rocks McAllen Community
Investigations Underway as Authorities Seek Suspect
McAllen, Texas – A tragic event has sent shockwaves through the local business community as authorities search for Reynaldo Mata-Rios, the prime suspect in the murder of Eddy Betancourt, a respected businessman and appointee of Governor Greg Abbott. Betancourt was discovered dead in his McAllen office on December 27, 2025, and the ongoing investigation has raised concerns about safety and the community’s future.
This incident highlights the need for ongoing support for our local businesses while also reinforcing the importance of law enforcement in safeguarding our entrepreneurial ecosystem. The response from the McAllen community and law enforcement showcases a united front against violence, underscoring the resilience of local enterprises that contribute significantly to economic growth in Bexar County.
Background on Eddy Betancourt
Eddy Betancourt, 61, was a well-known figure in the Rio Grande Valley’s business landscape. He served as the president of R&B General Construction Co. Inc., co-owned National Tire and Wheel LLC, and managed general retail operations for E2H Investment. His contributions extended to various community organizations, including the McAllen Board of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. Furthermore, Betancourt’s appointment to the Texas Facilities Commission by Governor Abbott in 2020, with a term reappointment in 2023 until 2029, illustrates his significant role in overseeing state-owned property operations.
Details of the Incident
On the afternoon of December 27, McAllen police received a distress call regarding an unresponsive man in a business located in the 800 block of North Ware Road. Officers arrived to find Betancourt unresponsive, with no signs of life. He was pronounced dead on the scene, prompting the McAllen Police Department to classify the case as a homicide.
Investigation and Public Appeal
Following the discovery, authorities quickly identified Reynaldo Mata-Rios, 60, as the suspect and issued a first-degree felony murder warrant. Authorities report that he is approximately 6 feet tall, weighs about 195 pounds, has brown hair and eyes, and has expressed intentions to surrender. However, Mata-Rios has yet to do so, and the police urge the public to provide any information that could aid the investigation.
Community Response and Resilience
The local community has expressed deep sadness and shock at Betancourt’s untimely death, emphasizing his pivotal role in fostering business growth and community service. Local leaders have called for justice and have urged those with information to cooperate with law enforcement. This tragic event has ignited conversations around safety measures and the importance of a secure environment for small businesses to thrive, further underscoring the community’s commitment to support one another during difficult times.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is active, with McAllen police seeking to uncover the full circumstances surrounding Betancourt’s death. They have not released additional details on the motive behind the shooting, but they continue to welcome tips that may shed light on the case. This highlights the collective effort between law enforcement and the community in promoting safety and justice.
Call to Action
As this investigation unfolds, it is crucial for residents to remain vigilant and engaged in their community. Encouraging transparency and communication can foster a sense of unity that supports both local businesses and overall economic growth in San Antonio. Let us come together to advocate for a thriving environment where our entrepreneurs can flourish.
FAQ
- Who is Eddy Betancourt?
- Eddy Betancourt was a 61-year-old businessman from Mission, Texas. He served as the president of R&B General Construction Co. Inc., co-owned National Tire and Wheel LLC, and was a general retail partner manager for E2H Investment. Betancourt was also a member of the McAllen Board of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. In 2020, Governor Greg Abbott appointed him to the Texas Facilities Commission, which oversees the construction, maintenance, and leasing of state-owned buildings. He was reappointed in 2023 to a term set to expire in 2029.
- What happened to Eddy Betancourt?
- On December 27, 2025, at approximately 3:51 p.m., McAllen police responded to a 911 call reporting an unresponsive man who appeared to have suffered a gunshot wound inside a business located in the 800 block of North Ware Road. Upon arrival, officers found Betancourt unresponsive, with no pulse, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The McAllen Police Department is investigating the death as a homicide.
- Who is the suspect in this case?
- The McAllen Police Department has identified 60-year-old Reynaldo Mata-Rios as the primary suspect in the fatal shooting of Eddy Betancourt. A first-degree felony murder warrant has been issued for Mata-Rios, who has indicated an intention to surrender but has not yet done so. He is described as 6 feet tall, weighing approximately 195 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not released further details regarding the motive or circumstances surrounding the shooting.
- What is the current status of the investigation?
- The McAllen Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Betancourt’s death. Authorities have not released additional details about the motive or circumstances of the shooting. The public is encouraged to provide any information that may assist in the investigation.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Eddy Betancourt, 61, a prominent Rio Grande Valley businessman and appointee of Governor Greg Abbott |
| Incident Date | December 27, 2025 |
| Location | 800 block of North Ware Road, McAllen, Texas |
| Suspect | Reynaldo Mata-Rios, 60, wanted on a first-degree felony murder charge |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing; authorities have not released further details regarding the motive or circumstances surrounding the shooting |
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