This week, a Dallas County grand jury indicted Richard Acosta, Jr. on a capital murder charge in the shooting that occurred Dec. 26, 2021, at a convenience store/gas station at Walnut Street and Glenbrook Drive.
Richard Acosta is the father of 14-year-old Abel Elias Acosta who allegedly fired at least 20 rounds inside the store. Three teens were killed and one was wounded in this shooting.
The Garland Police Department has not yet located Abel Acosta.
The father was charged with capital murder because of his involvement, which included his allegedly driving his son, Abel Acosta, to the store where the murders occurred. He also drove him away after the shootings. Richard Acosta’s attorney maintains that he did not know that his son was going to the store to shoot anyone.
Those who lost their lives in the shooting are 17-year-old Rafael Garcia, 16-year-old Ivan Noyala and 14-year-old Xavier Gonzalez. A cook who was working at the store was wounded. He is 15.
Abel Acosta has not been found, but police are hopeful that the $10,000 reward being offered will help lead to his arrest. The Garland Police Department continues to receive tips. The U.S. Marshalls office is now working with GPD in the search for the teen.
Richard Acosta is in the Dallas County Jail with bond set at $3 million.
Police continue to stress that Abel Acosta should be considered armed and dangerous.
Anyone who has information regarding Abel Acosta’s whereabouts should call Garland PD at 972-485-4869.