Arrest records say the suspect, a California man, was invited to stay at the home before he allegedly killed Acosta and fled.
SAN ANTONIO — A California man was invited to stay at a relative’s Stone Oak home before he killed that 78-year-old family member and fled the county Tuesday morning, according to arrest records.
An arrest affidavit identified the victim as Edward Ronald Acosta, the Las Palapas restaurant chain founder better known in the community as Ron Acosta.
David Ruiz, 39, was stopped and arrested on a Kimble County highway, authorities said. It’s believed the suspect, who is from the Los Angeles area, was trying to leave Texas. Authorities said he was arrested without incident.
Officials are still working to determine a motive after officers responded to the 19200 block of Reata Trail around 11 a.m. for what San Antonio Police Chief William McManus called a “high-profile murder.” He said argument escalated inside the home before the suspect allegedly attacked and fatally stabbed the elderly man.
“The housekeeper called,” McManus said. “She was the other person in the house at the time. The victim lived here by himself.”
According to a preliminary police report, the housekeeper “stated there was blood all around (the victim) and she can’t control the bleeding.”
Arrest records say Ruiz first contacted Acosta’s son, who “told the suspect to come stay with him here in San Antonio.” Then, on Tuesday, “the victim called the suspect and told him to come and stay at his house.”
That plan was confirmed by investigators who reviewed family group chat messages.
“There’s no danger to the community from this event,” McManus said early Tuesday afternoon, adding Acosta lived by himself in the home.
A large group of investigators and police personnel could be seen in the area throughout the day, security tape lining the property the crime occurred in.
Authorities emphasized the information could change as the investigation evolves.
Acosta Remembered as “very giving”
The community is grieving the loss of a prominent businessman who is known for giving back.
Jimmy Robles, the pastor at Last Chance Ministries said he has known Acosta for more than 15 years. Acosta started donating to his church for several different events.
“San Antonio’s going to miss him,” Robles said. “He is very very giving, loves to see people smile.”
Acosta founded Las Palapas in 1981. According to its website, it has more than 20 locations throughout the San Antonio area.
“He was a praying man and really didn’t want to see, with his restaurants and everything, really didn’t want to see anyone go to sleep hungry,” Robles said.
Robles is asking the community to keep Acosta’s family and the Las Palapas family in your prayers.
“It’s not easy losing a loved one like this, especially someone like him who has made an impact on so many lives,” Robles said.
Las Palapas shared this statement on their social media page:
“We are heartbroken to learn of the tragic and untimely death of Ron Acosta. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
“Ron was a man of deep faith, a generous spirit, and a true community leader. His warmth, vision, and work ethic left an undeniable mark on San Antonio. Many knew him as the founder of Las Palapas, but those closest to him knew him as a kind, God-fearing man who believed in serving others, whether through food, friendship, or faith. Ron’s impact reached far beyond the restaurants he helped build. He brought people together, created jobs and opportunities, and shared his love of culture and community in everything he did. He will be missed more than words can express. May he rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength and comfort in the legacy he leaves behind.”