In McAllen, Texas, the community is grappling with the tragic loss of Eddy Betancourt, 61, a prominent businessman and member of the Texas Facilities Commission. President Donald Trump, along with state and local officials, have responded to the incident with condolences and a coordinated law enforcement effort to locate the suspect.
On Saturday afternoon, McAllen police were dispatched to North Ware Road following a 911 call reporting an unresponsive man. Upon arrival, authorities discovered Betancourt with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Trending Politics.
Reynaldo Mata-Rios, 60, has been named the suspect in this homicide. The McAllen Municipal Court issued a first-degree felony warrant for murder. Despite indications of his intent to surrender, Mata-Rios was still at large as of Monday morning. The police have not yet released details concerning the relationship between Mata-Rios and Betancourt or the motive behind the shooting.
Betancourt was well-known in the business community, holding various leadership positions including president of R&B General Construction Co. Inc. and co-owner and president of National Tire and Wheel LLC. His public service record is notable; he was appointed to the Texas Facilities Commission by Gov. Greg Abbott in 2020 and reappointed in 2023, overseeing significant state projects.
The murder has shocked the Rio Grande Valley, with public figures expressing their sorrow and respect for Betancourt's contributions. Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez and Mission City Councilman Ruben Plata shared their heartfelt tributes on social media.
The McAllen Police Department, along with other agencies, is diligently working to capture Mata-Rios and further investigate the crime. They have released a description of the suspect and are urging the public to provide any information they have.
Betancourt's death has had a profound impact on the region, highlighting issues of public safety and the necessity for efficient multiagency collaboration in criminal investigations. His legacy in the business and government sectors will endure, and his untimely passing has underscored the broader concerns of violent crime's effect on community and civic engagement.
