San Antonio, Texas, January 5, 2026
San Antonio police have arrested Eric Rene Perez and Matthew Andres Espinoza for vehicle thefts, including the theft of a Chevrolet Camaro that later caused a fatal crash on I-35. Surveillance footage shows the suspects breaking into a truck and stealing a handbag before their reckless driving led to multiple fatalities and injuries in a subsequent collision. The investigation continues as authorities seek more information from the public.
San Antonio, Texas – Thieves Caught on Camera Breaking into Cars Before Crashing into Truck
San Antonio police have apprehended two men involved in a series of vehicle thefts and a subsequent crash that resulted in multiple fatalities. The suspects, Eric Rene Perez and Matthew Andres Espinoza, were arrested in connection with the theft of a Chevrolet Camaro, which was later involved in a deadly collision on Interstate 35 (I-35).
Details of the Incident
On July 15, 2025, surveillance footage captured Perez and Espinoza in the parking lot of Kin’s Buffet at 7863 I-35. The two men were seen breaking into a Ford F-150 truck, with Perez using an instrument to pry open and break the door handle on the driver’s side. He emerged with a handbag containing a Gucci bag, an undisclosed amount of money, a bank card, and an ID card. Espinoza acted as a lookout during the theft. The stolen Camaro was reported on July 14, 2025, in Converse, Texas. After the theft, the suspects were seen at a nearby Lowe’s store, where they made purchases using the stolen items.
Two days later, on July 17, 2025, the stolen Camaro was involved in a high-speed collision on I-35 near Cassin Road. The vehicle was speeding and weaving between traffic when it collided with a trailer being hauled by a small transport bus. The collision forced the bus off the road, where it was hit again by a semi-truck, causing multiple passengers to be ejected. Two people died at the scene, and three others were pronounced dead at the hospital. Fifteen people sustained injuries. After the crash, multiple suspects fled the Camaro on foot without rendering aid, including at least one who was armed.
Arrests and Charges
Following the crash, Perez and Espinoza were arrested and charged with burglary of vehicles and other offenses. DNA evidence and surveillance video connected them to the stolen Camaro. Cell phone records also placed them at the scene of the crash. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming. The San Antonio Police Department continues to seek information from the public to assist in the case.
Background Context
Vehicle thefts and related crimes have been a concern in San Antonio. In previous incidents, stolen vehicles have been involved in crashes leading to fatalities and injuries. For example, in November 2025, a 19-year-old was charged with five counts of manslaughter after crashing a stolen Camaro on I-35, resulting in five deaths. In September 2025, two men were arrested after a stolen truck ran a red light and collided with another vehicle, sending a woman to the hospital. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing vehicle theft and its consequences in the community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who are the suspects involved in the vehicle thefts and crash?
The suspects are Eric Rene Perez and Matthew Andres Espinoza, who were arrested in connection with the theft of a Chevrolet Camaro involved in a deadly collision on I-35.
What charges have been filed against the suspects?
The suspects have been charged with burglary of vehicles and other offenses related to the theft and subsequent crash. Additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
What happened during the crash on I-35?
On July 17, 2025, the stolen Camaro was speeding and weaving between traffic on I-35 near Cassin Road when it collided with a trailer being hauled by a small transport bus. The collision forced the bus off the road, where it was hit again by a semi-truck, causing multiple passengers to be ejected. Two people died at the scene, and three others were pronounced dead at the hospital. Fifteen people sustained injuries.
How did law enforcement connect the suspects to the stolen Camaro?
DNA evidence and surveillance video connected Perez and Espinoza to the stolen Camaro. Cell phone records also placed them at the scene of the crash, leading to their arrests.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement continues to seek information from the public to assist in the case. Additional charges may be forthcoming as more details emerge.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspects | Eric Rene Perez and Matthew Andres Espinoza |
| Vehicle Involved | Stolen Chevrolet Camaro |
| Location of Theft | Parking lot of Kin’s Buffet at 7863 I-35 |
| Location of Crash | I-35 near Cassin Road |
| Fatalities | Five people (two at the scene, three at the hospital) |
| Injuries | Fifteen people |
| Charges Filed | Burglary of vehicles and other offenses; additional charges pending |
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