SAN ANTONIO, TX — Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting that claimed the life of a 36-year-old man early Thursday morning on the city’s West Side. The victim, identified as Ricky Contreras Hernandez, was discovered with a fatal gunshot wound to the head outside a business located along the 1200 block of Historic Old Highway 90, near Acme Road, according to the San Antonio Police Department.
Officers responded to reports of gunfire just before 3:00 a.m. and arrived to find Hernandez lying unresponsive on the ground in front of the store. Emergency medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene shortly after their arrival. Investigators believe the shooting may have occurred in or near the victim’s vehicle, which was found close by with multiple bullet holes in its windshield, suggesting a violent exchange took place before the gunfire ended.
Detectives spent the early morning hours collecting evidence, marking shell casings, and reviewing the area for possible witnesses. Police confirmed that they are working to determine what led up to the deadly encounter but have not yet released any suspect information. At this stage, the motive remains unclear, and no arrests have been made. Officers are reviewing surveillance footage from the business and neighboring properties, hoping it provides key details about the shooter or vehicle involved.
The area along Old Highway 90 remained cordoned off for several hours as investigators processed the crime scene. Residents in the neighborhood expressed shock over the early-morning violence, noting that while the area has seen its share of disturbances, fatal shootings are still deeply unsettling. One resident described waking up to the sound of sirens and seeing police lights fill the street as officers secured the scene.
Family and friends of Hernandez have been left heartbroken by the news. A graduate of John F. Kennedy High School, Hernandez was described by those who knew him as a kind and hardworking man. Social media posts from friends reflected disbelief and sorrow, with many calling for justice and urging anyone with information to come forward to help police find the person responsible.
The San Antonio Police Department’s Homicide Unit continues to lead the investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with details about the shooting to contact SAPD or reach out anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (210) 224-STOP. A reward may be offered for information leading to an arrest.