Corpus Christi, Texas – The Corpus Christi Police Department (CCPD) has made a second arrest in connection with a fatal shooting that took place on Sunday night near Seaside Cemetery. Benito Juarez, a 28-year-old man, was shot and later died from his injuries. The authorities have identified two individuals, 20-year-old Amber Salazar and 20-year-old Jesse Diaz, in connection with the crime, both of whom have been arrested and charged in the case.

Details of the Incident and Initial Response

The fatal shooting occurred on Sunday, January 7, 2025, at approximately 6:18 p.m. in the 200 block of Robert Drive, near the Seaside Cemetery. Corpus Christi police officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers found Benito Juarez being given first aid by the Corpus Christi Fire Department. Despite the best efforts of emergency personnel, Juarez succumbed to his injuries shortly after being transported to a nearby hospital.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the shooting resulted from an altercation between an unknown number of individuals who had gathered at the location. The dispute quickly escalated, leading to gunfire. After the shooting, the suspects fled the scene in an unidentified vehicle.

Arrests and Investigation Developments

The investigation into the shooting was swiftly launched, and detectives began searching for leads. Within days of the incident, the Corpus Christi Police Department arrested 20-year-old Jesse Diaz in connection with the fatal shooting of Benito Juarez. Diaz was apprehended at the CCPD Main Station and later transported to the City Detention Center for booking. His bond was set at $750,000.

However, the investigation did not stop there. On Tuesday, U.S. Marshals, in collaboration with CCPD officers, made a second arrest. Amber Salazar, 20, was taken into custody at the 4800 block of Kendall Drive. Initially, Salazar was arrested on an unrelated burglary warrant, with a bond set at $30,000 for the burglary charge. After being interviewed by homicide detectives at the CCPD station, Salazar was charged with murder, and her bond was increased to a total of $780,000.

Salazar’s arrest marked a significant development in the case, as authorities believe she, along with Diaz, was involved in the fatal shooting of Benito Juarez. The exact role of each suspect is still being determined, and investigators are working to uncover the full extent of their involvement.

Victim’s Identification and Community Impact

The Nueces County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed that Benito Juarez was the victim of the tragic shooting. Juarez’s death has left his family and friends devastated, as many remember him as a vibrant young man with much potential. Details surrounding Juarez’s background and life are still emerging, but friends and family have expressed their shock and sorrow over the loss of a loved one in such a senseless act of violence.

While Juarez’s identity has been confirmed, authorities are still working to learn more about the nature of his relationship with the suspects. Investigators believe that Juarez and the suspects were likely acquainted, indicating that the shooting may not have been a random act of violence. This revelation has provided some context for the crime, though many questions remain about the exact circumstances that led to the deadly confrontation.

The Role of Law Enforcement and Community Involvement

The swift action taken by the Corpus Christi Police Department, U.S. Marshals, and other law enforcement agencies in making two arrests highlights the department’s commitment to solving violent crimes and ensuring justice for victims. The collaboration between local and federal authorities has been instrumental in quickly apprehending suspects, and investigators continue to pursue leads in the case.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that might assist with the case. CCPD detectives are actively working to identify additional suspects and gather more evidence. Anyone with knowledge about the shooting or the individuals involved is encouraged to contact the Corpus Christi Police Department at 361-886-2600. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 888-TIPS (8477).

“We are committed to bringing justice to Benito Juarez and his family,” said CCPD spokesperson Sergeant Maria Gonzales. “We ask that anyone who might have information about this case help us bring the remaining individuals involved to justice.”

Ongoing Investigation and Potential for Additional Arrests

Though two arrests have been made, the investigation remains active, and detectives are pursuing additional leads. Authorities believe that there may be other individuals involved in the shooting, and they are continuing to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses.

“We are continuing our efforts to ensure that everyone involved in this crime is held accountable,” said Detective John Riley, the lead investigator on the case. “While we’ve made significant progress, the investigation is still ongoing, and we ask the public to remain vigilant and report any relevant information.”

The case is expected to develop further in the coming days, and more details may emerge as investigators continue to work tirelessly to uncover the full scope of the events surrounding Benito Juarez’s death.

Crime and Public Safety Concerns in Corpus Christi

The shooting near Seaside Cemetery has raised concerns among residents of Corpus Christi, particularly regarding the safety of the area. The neighborhood, while typically quiet, has experienced incidents of violence in the past, and this recent tragedy has left many on edge. Community members have expressed their frustration with the rise in violent crime and have called for increased efforts to address public safety.

“Too many young people are dying, and too many families are grieving,” said one local resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “Something needs to be done to stop this violence. It’s heartbreaking to see another life cut short like this.”

Local leaders and community organizations have echoed these sentiments, urging law enforcement to continue their efforts in solving violent crimes and providing support to affected families. Additionally, there is a push for more community programs aimed at providing alternatives to violence for at-risk youth in the area.

“Corpus Christi deserves to be a place where everyone feels safe,” said another community member. “We need to come together and make sure that tragedies like this don’t keep happening.”

Conclusion: Continued Investigation and Pursuit of Justice

The shooting death of Benito Juarez near Seaside Cemetery has shocked the Corpus Christi community, but with the arrests of Amber Salazar and Jesse Diaz, progress is being made toward justice. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the full extent of the suspects’ involvement and to identify any additional individuals connected to the crime.

While the loss of Benito Juarez is deeply felt by his family, friends, and the community, the ongoing efforts by law enforcement provide hope that justice will be served. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation.

As this case develops, more updates are expected, and the Corpus Christi Police Department remains committed to solving the case and ensuring that those responsible for this senseless act of violence are held accountable.