San Marcos Mourns After Deadly Downtown Shooting Claims Two Lives, Injures One
The San Marcos community is mourning following a fatal shooting in the early hours of Saturday, July 19, 2025, near San Antonio Street and Guadalupe Street—part of the city’s popular downtown Square known for nightlife and events .
🕑 Incident Overview
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Just after 1:30 a.m., a fight broke out outside a cluster of bars and clubs in The Square—a hotspot for college students and locals
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The altercation escalated when an assault and a theft of a necklace occurred, prompting a bystander’s involvement, and leading to multiple gunshots fired by 19‑year‑old Jermiah Jayden Tobias
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Authorities confirmed no ongoing threat to public safety, although the scene was secured overnight as the police conducted an extensive investigation.
🕊️ Victims
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Anthony Barrera, 24, was declared dead at the scene by Justice of the Peace Jo Anne Prado
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Alek Pacheco, 20, succumbed to his injuries at Christus Santa Rosa Hospital .
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A third individual sustained a non-life-threatening graze wound and has been treated and released
🎯 Arrest & Charges
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San Marcos Police arrested Tobias around 8 p.m. on Saturday, charging him with two counts of capital murder and one count of aggravated assault .
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Further detentions were made, though specific charges or identities have not been disclosed .
👁️ Community Reaction
The incident has left San Marcos, particularly residents, Texas State University students, and local business owners, in shock. Social media chatter reflects both grief and outrage, especially over the senseless motive tied to a stolen necklace .
A heavy law enforcement presence remained through the night, prompting some residents to avoid downtown. Streets were reopened around 7:28 a.m.
🔍 Investigation
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Investigators reviewed surveillance video and gathered witness statements.
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San Marcos PD is urging anyone with photos or videos of the incident to contact them at 512‑753‑2108
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The broader motive suggests that a minor dispute escalated into a deadly exchange—spotlighting the volatility of minor disputes turning violent.
🙏 In Memoriam
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Anthony Barrera, 24, is remembered by friends and family as outgoing and full of life—a young man taken all too soon.
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Alek Pacheco, just 20, had his future cut tragically short; friends say he had so much left to give.
As funeral arrangements are finalized, vigils and memorials are expected to be organized by friends, classmates, and community advocates.
📢 Broader Concerns & Community Calls
The shooting has sparked a larger conversation about violence in college towns. In response, local leaders and campus officials are calling for:
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Increased security presence and de-escalation resources in nightlife areas.
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Public education campaigns targeting conflict resolution.
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Community forums to address safety concerns and support trauma-informed care.
📝 Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | ~1:30 a.m., Saturday, July 19, 2025 |
| Location | San Antonio & Guadalupe Streets, San Marcos |
| Victims | Anthony Barrera (24, deceased at scene); Alek Pacheco (20, died at hospital); one injured & released |
| Suspect | Jermiah Jayden Tobias, 19 – arrested, faces capital murder & aggravated assault charges |
| Incident Cause | Altercation escalated after theft of a necklace |
| Public Impact | Downtown lockdown, stunned community, open investigation underway |
🕊️ Final Thoughts
This tragedy leaves a deep scar on San Marcos—a community defined by its vibrant energy and youthful spirit now grieving a devastating act of gun violence. As the city begins to heal, authorities and residents are working together to prevent such a senseless loss of life again.
If you witnessed the incident or have relevant material, please reach out to the San Marcos Police Department. Your help could be instrumental in the pursuit of justice.