A 19-year-old man was fatally shot by San Antonio police during a response to a domestic dispute with his girlfriend on Tuesday evening. The incident occurred at an apartment complex on the city’s northwest side.
According to the San Antonio Police Department, officers arrived at the scene after receiving a 911 call reporting an “assault in progress.” WOAI/KABB learned that the victim was on the phone with 911 when the call came in, and that she and her boyfriend, identified as Robby Jay Hernandez, had been arguing.
Police said that Hernandez had left the apartment but returned with a gun. Investigators believe that Hernandez then physically assaulted his girlfriend, causing the 911 call to be disconnected during the violent confrontation.
As officers entered the apartment, they reportedly heard a single gunshot. Upon encountering Hernandez, police found him standing over the victim while holding a gun. In response, an officer who has been with the department for 11 years fired his weapon, striking Hernandez once in the shoulder and back area.
Hernandez was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The female victim inside the apartment was not injured by the gunfire.
The San Antonio Police Department is continuing its investigation into the incident, as is standard protocol for officer-involved shootings. The identity of the officer who fired the fatal shot has not been released at this time.
This tragic event highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the challenges faced by law enforcement when responding to such incidents. It also underscores the importance of seeking help and support for those experiencing abuse in their relationships.