Authorities are engaged in an expanding manhunt for Jose Osman Aguilar Cantillano, 32, identified as the suspect in a fatal shooting that erupted early Sunday morning outside the Alas Locas Sports Bar in Cleveland, Texas. The violent incident resulted in two deaths and left four others injured, prompting a widespread search that now extends beyond the borders of Texas.
The Deadly Encounter at Alas Locas
The shooting occurred shortly after 2:30 a.m. on Sunday, September 7th, at the bar located on County Road 5018. According to the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, Cantillano arrived at the establishment around midnight, ordered drinks, and remained alone for over an hour. He reportedly left just before closing, only to return minutes later and unleash gunfire on patrons gathered outside on the patio. Investigators also stated that he fired shots toward the front doors of the business before fleeing the scene. In total, six individuals were struck by gunfire.
Victims and Survivors Identified
Of the six victims, Alexis Jasso, 30, was pronounced dead at the scene. Fernando Navarrete, 43, was airlifted to a Houston hospital where he tragically succumbed to his injuries the following day. The four surviving victims, identified as Sandra Patricia Valiz Adrian, 42, Aldegundo Alvarez Trujillo, 40, Jose Rafael Sanchez, 34, and Andres Gonzalez, 35, sustained injuries ranging from gunshot wounds to the hand, shoulder, and leg. All four were treated and subsequently released from the hospital.
Suspect Profile and Criminal History
A murder warrant has been issued for Cantillano, who is described by law enforcement as armed and dangerous. Investigators have been able to piece together Cantillano’s background, revealing a criminal history across multiple Texas counties. Court documents indicate past arrests for charges including public intoxication, resisting arrest, possession of drug paraphernalia, and assault involving family violence. There are also records of citations for driving without a license and speeding in some areas, as well as debt claims and toll road violations in others.
Expanding Manhunt and Federal Contact
The manhunt for Cantillano is a top priority for the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. Captain David Meyers stated that Cantillano is believed to be the sole shooter. Surveillance footage was instrumental in identifying the suspect, and authorities are grateful for the community’s assistance. Investigators have learned that Cantillano has ties to both New Orleans, Louisiana, and Atlanta, Georgia, and believe he may be traveling to one of these locations. He is believed to be driving a white construction-style van with visible damage to its side panel and front bumper, though reports also suggest he may be using a green Toyota Corolla. License plates for these vehicles have not yet been confirmed.
In addition to local and state resources, federal authorities have been engaged. Investigators confirmed they have contacted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding Cantillano’s legal status in the country, though ICE has not yet provided a response.
Wife Arrested for Tampering with Evidence
On Monday, September 8th, deputies executed a search warrant at Cantillano’s residence. While the suspect was not found, his wife, 23-year-old Alejandra Marie Valdez Montoya, was arrested later that evening and charged with tampering with evidence. She is currently being held at the Liberty County Jail. Details surrounding the specific evidence involved have not been released due to the ongoing investigation.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The shooting has sent ripples of shock through the community of Cleveland, Texas. Alas Locas, a bar that has been open for less than a year, described the shooting as “senseless” and expressed devastation over the loss of life and injuries. The business stated that the victims were regulars who had become like family. Sheriff Bobby Rader has stressed that anyone found to be aiding Cantillano in evading capture could face charges, including aiding and abetting or failure to report a felony. The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and the investigation is continuing. Authorities urge anyone with information on Cantillano’s whereabouts to contact the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office at 936-336-4500 or Crime Stoppers at 800-392-7867. This current news continues to develop as law enforcement works to apprehend the suspect.
