San Marcos police continue searching for a second suspect, 19-year-old Avery Bowman Jr.
SAN MARCOS, Texas — For the family of 24-year-old Anthony Barrera, grief has come with agonizing questions and a longing for answers. Days after he was fatally shot in San Marcos, alongside 20-year-old Alek Pacheco, his loved ones told KVUE the loss has turned their world upside down.
San Marcos police have arrested 19-year-old Jermiah Tobias, who now faces capital murder charges. Investigators said they are still searching for another suspect, 19-year-old Avery Bowman Jr., accused of robbing one of the victims.
Meanwhile, Anthony Barrera’s father, Antonio Barrera, said he’s clinging to the final memory of his son.
“Last Thursday, I don’t know why but he gave me more hugs than normal,” Antonio Barrera said. “That night I remember, I almost pushed him away because he gave me a fourth hug. I took it anyway, and that was it – I talked to him the following day, but I didn’t see him. So that’s the last memory I have.”
Antonio Barrera described Anthony Barrera as a funny, outgoing and loving person. He said he now leaves behind a 4-year-old son.
“I don’t know how we’re going to do it. Little boy comes home asking for daddy. Daddy was his entire world. I mean, literally,” he said.
Family and friends said they are determined to find answers and want justice for Anthony Barrera.
“I wish somebody would have defended him,” said close friend Andrea Currie. “I wish somebody would have stepped in to intervene, if that means calling the cops sooner, doing something to help him.”
Antonio Barrera said he will not stop pushing for justice.
“I want all participants to be brought to justice. That is it, bottom line. And I will push for this all the way through,” he said.