Andrew Farias, 18, was killed in the May 25 shooting in Uhland, Texas. Authorities made an arrest in Austin on Monday night.
UHLAND, Texas — An arrest has been made in connection with a weekend shooting that left a recent San Marcos High School graduate dead.
Uhland police officers responded to reports of gunfire outside a home on Rocky Road early Sunday morning, May 25, at around 1 a.m. Police said an altercation took place, which led to a suspect pulling out a gun. The suspect fled before officers arrived.
Family members later identified the victim as 18-year-old Andrew Farias, a former football player who graduated from San Marcos High School the day before the shooting.
Now, police have arrested another 18-year-old who they say is responsible for Farias’ death.
Uhland police said in an update Tuesday morning that, with the assistance of the Texas Rangers, Chad Lee-Gardner was taken into custody late Monday night in Austin. He was booked into the Travis County Jail on a warrant for a murder charge.
Uhland Police Chief Greg Duarte thanked the Rangers for their help and said the department “extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of Farias.”
Loved ones describe Farias as a funny, caring person who had dreams for his future. Shannon Vasquez, Farias’ mother, provided KVUE the following statement:
“No words can describe this pain I’m feeling. I lost my best friend. I love all my children but Andrew held a special place in my heart. Everyone that knew us knew he was nothing more than a momma’s boy. Him and I had a bond that everyone admired. My baby boy was the light of the room. He was always so positive and a drama-free kid. He avoided any confrontation. He had so many dreams ahead of him and always said, ‘Momma, I’m going to get us out the hood. I’m going to make you so proud Momma. He was an amazing big and little brother. He loved his siblings and his stepdad. Everyone knew him for his big smile. He smiled at everyone and everything. He was a busy body and just wanted to enjoy life.”
A vigil to honor Farias is planned for Tuesday at the San Marcos High School football stadium.