San Antonio, TX – In a series of tragic events that unfolded early Saturday morning, Priscilla Gaiton, a 43-year-old woman, lost her life in a high-speed crash following a pursuit by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) deputies. The incident began with a shooting that claimed the life of 25-year-old Jennifer Rodriguez on Woodlake Parkway, with law enforcement now investigating connections between the two women, a 19-year-old passenger, and the circumstances leading to the fatal outcomes.

The Tragic Sequence of Events

The chain of events began shortly after 2 a.m. on Saturday, when San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) officers responded to a shooting call at a residence on Woodlake Parkway. Upon arrival, officers discovered Jennifer Rodriguez suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite being transported to a hospital, Rodriguez succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead. Investigators have not disclosed details about the circumstances leading to the shooting or the identity of the shooter, but they confirmed a connection between Rodriguez and Gaiton, though the nature of their relationship remains unclear.

Moments after the shooting, SAPD officers were alerted that Gaiton was fleeing the scene in her vehicle. A BCSO deputy, who had been patrolling in east Bexar County and heard gunshots, observed Gaiton driving at high speed. When the deputy attempted a traffic stop, Gaiton refused to pull over, initiating a dangerous chase that spanned multiple roadways.

The Fatal Chase and Crash

According to reports, Gaiton drove erratically through a parking lot before speeding onto Walzem Road, heading toward Interstate 35. As she approached the I-35 access road, Gaiton lost control of her vehicle, which crashed violently into a light pole. The collision caused extensive damage, ripping off the driver’s side door and ejecting Gaiton from the car. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene, with the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office later ruling her death as accidental due to multiple blunt force injuries.

Authorities recovered a loaded AK-style rifle with a live round in the chamber inside Gaiton’s car. Additionally, a fully loaded magazine was found near the crash site, raising questions about her intentions following the shooting of Rodriguez.

19-Year-Old Passenger Attempts to Flee

Following the crash, deputies discovered a 19-year-old passenger, Ethan Gonzales, who is reportedly related to Gaiton, though the exact nature of their relationship has not been disclosed. Gonzales attempted to flee the scene on foot but was apprehended by deputies shortly afterward. After being transported to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries, Gonzales attempted to escape once again but was subdued with a taser and placed back in custody.

Gonzales now faces multiple charges, including evading arrest on foot and escape from custody, with a bond set at $20,000. Authorities are still determining whether Gonzales will face charges related to the shooting of Rodriguez, though SAPD has yet to disclose additional information.

Administrative Actions and Investigations

In the aftermath of the incident, three BCSO deputies involved in the pursuit have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard procedure following an in-custody death. While there was no deputy-involved shooting, Sheriff Javier Salazar emphasized that the deputies appeared to follow department policies and procedures during the pursuit.

“This is an incredibly tragic situation, and we extend our condolences to everyone affected by these events,” Salazar stated. “Our deputies acted in accordance with training and protocols, and we are committed to ensuring a thorough investigation into all aspects of this case.”

Jennifer Rodriguez’s Death Remains Under Investigation

Meanwhile, SAPD continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting of Jennifer Rodriguez. Authorities have not revealed a motive, nor have they confirmed whether Gonzales or anyone else will face charges related to her death. The connection between Rodriguez, Gaiton, and Gonzales is a key focus of the investigation.

A Community Grapples with Tragedy

The deaths of Gaiton and Rodriguez, along with the ensuing chaos involving Gonzales and law enforcement, have left the local community reeling. Friends and family members of both women are mourning their losses, while authorities work to piece together the events that led to this devastating outcome.

Gaiton’s family has requested privacy during this difficult time, expressing their grief over her sudden and tragic death. Likewise, Rodriguez’s loved ones are calling for justice, urging authorities to uncover the truth behind the shooting that ended her life.

Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Investigations

With investigations led by both the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office and the San Antonio Police Department, many questions remain unanswered. Key areas of focus include:

• The motive behind the shooting of Jennifer Rodriguez
• The nature of the relationship between Rodriguez, Gaiton, and Gonzales
• The circumstances that led to the fatal crash and Gaiton’s decision to flee
• The origin and intended use of the firearm found in Gaiton’s vehicle

As authorities work to provide clarity, they have urged anyone with information related to either the shooting or the pursuit to come forward. Investigators are also reviewing body camera footage, witness statements, and physical evidence recovered from both the crime scene and the crash site.

Final Thoughts

The tragic deaths of Priscilla Gaiton and Jennifer Rodriguez underscore the far-reaching consequences of violence and reckless actions. As the community mourns these losses, law enforcement agencies are under pressure to deliver answers and justice for the victims and their families. This harrowing series of events highlights the need for continued efforts to address gun violence, ensure public safety, and support those impacted by such tragedies.