Nacogdoches Deputies Arrest Man in Connection to October Shooting

The Nacogdoches County Sheriff's Office is reporting that one subject has been arrested in connection to a shooting that occurred on Saturday, October 23. The victim in the shooting was shot several times inside his vehicle on County Road 823, near Lone Star Church. The victim spent several weeks in an East Texas Hospital recovering from his injuries, but has since been released.

An investigation by the Sheriff’s Office and the Texas Rangers has led to identifying two possible suspects. Officials with the Sheriff’s Office established probable cause and executed a search warrant on a residence on County Road 127 near Appleby in Nacogdoches County on November 17.

Investigators found evidence that investigators believe is directly related to the shooting. Several weapons were seized from the residence, one of which was reported stolen through the Nacogdoches Police Department. A large amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia that is consistent with the use of drug distribution was also seized.

On the night of October 23, the victim was supposed to meet a friend on County Road 823. It is believed he was set up by the suspects to meet them at that location where they planned to rob him. The driver of the suspect vehicle was wearing a ski mask at the time and was the person who fired several shots at the victim. After the victim was shot, several items were removed from his vehicle. The two suspects then fled the scene.

The passenger in the suspect vehicle has been identified as Juan Garcia who was arrested at the search warrant site and charged with Aggravated Robbery, a felony-1st degree for his connection with the crime.

Law enforcement officials have identified a strong person of interest who authorities believe actually conducted the shooting.

This is an ongoing investigation and additional charges are pending.

Juan Pablo Garcia, 21, from Nacogdoches was booked into the Nacogdoches County Jail on November 17.  Bond was set at $50,000.