GARLAND, Texas — A manhunt is underway in Texas for a 14-year-old boy who is accused of a triple-murder inside a convenience store. The investigation regarding the shooting death of the three teenagers and the injury of one at the store on December 26 is still very active.
All victims shot were Hispanic males. The deceased are identified as 14-year-old Xavier Gonzalez, 16-year-old Ivan Noyala, and 17-year-old Rafael Garcia. The 15-year-old that was transported to the hospital is in stable condition.
Detectives retrieved video surveillance showing all the victims inside the store. The video also showed the suspect, Abel Elias Acosta, exit a white Dodge 4-door pickup truck, open the front doors of the convenience store, and begin firing a gun striking the victims. The suspect is then seen getting back in the white truck on the passenger side and the truck fleeing at a high rate of speed.
Police say that the driver of the truck, Richard Acosta, who previously turned himself in, is the father of the shooter, Abel Acosta.
It is not typical for the Garland Police Department to release juvenile information, but due to the nature of the offense and potential risk to the public, the court has authorized the release of his information. Abel is facing the charge of Capital Murder.
Abel Elias Acosta is described as a light-skinned Hispanic male with dark hair, brown eyes, approximately 5’ 05” in height, and weighing around 125 pounds.
Detectives believe Abel Acosta is actively evading capture and need the public’s assistance in locating him. He is considered armed and dangerous.
Anyone who has knowledge of the whereabouts of Abel is encouraged to call 911 immediately.
