SAN ANGELO, Texas — A tragic shooting at a San Angelo apartment complex Friday night has left one teenager dead and another facing a serious criminal charge. The incident happened at the Windmill Apartments and is being investigated by the San Angelo Police Department.
Police said officers were dispatched at approximately 8:44 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, to the 1900 block of Raney Street after receiving a report of a shooting victim. When officers arrived, they made contact with a 19-year-old male identified as Norberto Gonzales. Gonzales was taken into custody without incident, and officers secured the scene to ensure there was no further danger.
Inside one of the apartments, officers located the victim, 18-year-old Jordan DeLaCruz. He was suffering from a gunshot wound and was immediately treated by emergency responders. DeLaCruz was transported to Shannon Emergency Room in critical condition, where hospital staff worked to save his life.
Despite medical efforts, DeLaCruz later died from his injuries. His death was confirmed by hospital staff, marking a devastating loss for his family, friends, and the community. Authorities have not released details about the relationship between the two young men, but confirmed that both were present inside the apartment at the time of the shooting.
According to a preliminary investigation, police believe Gonzales and DeLaCruz were recklessly handling a handgun inside the apartment when the firearm discharged. Authorities stated that the discharge caused DeLaCruz to be shot by Gonzales. Investigators have emphasized that there is no indication the shooting was intentional, but described the handling of the firearm as unsafe.
As a result of the investigation, Norberto Gonzales was arrested and charged with manslaughter. The charge reflects allegations that the death was caused by reckless actions rather than a deliberate act. Gonzales remains in custody as the legal process moves forward, and no additional charges have been announced.
The San Angelo Police Department said the investigation remains ongoing and that no further information is available at this time. Officials are reminding the public of the serious dangers associated with careless firearm handling, noting that a single moment of poor judgment can result in permanent and tragic consequences. More details may be released as investigators continue to review the case.
