On June 2, 2026, an Atascosa County jury sentenced Samuel Ponce to life in prison for the murder of Jorge Erosa.
On August 21, 2023, Jorge Erosa was shot outside his home and later succumbed to his injuries despite the efforts of medical personnel at Brooke Army Medical Center. Investigators worked tirelessly to identify and apprehend the person responsible. Security camera footage captured the shooting, and additional evidence included social media communications, witness testimony, ballistic analysis, and the recovery of the murder weapon from Ponce's possession.
During the punishment phase of trial, jurors also heard evidence that Ponce committed a second murder later that same night, as well as an assault on a jailer while he was awaiting trial.
Atascosa County may be close to San Antonio, but our community has made it clear that we will not tolerate the drug and gun violence that has plagued other areas. This jury sent a powerful message that those who bring violence into our neighborhoods will be held fully accountable. The citizens of this county care deeply about the safety of their families and communities, and through their verdict, they have ensured that Samuel Ponce will never again threaten either. We are grateful for the jury's service, their courage, and their commitment to justice for Jorge Erosa and his family.
The 81st District Attorney's Office extends its sincere appreciation to Texas Ranger Lieutenant Shane Staley, Ranger Terry Snyder, former Jourdanton Police Department Officers Lt. Maricarmen Kaufman and Joshua Walker, Lt. Jordan Haren of the Pleasanton Police Department, Tim Challes and Alexis Hernandez of the Atascosa County Sheriff's Office, Dr. Garrett Phillips of the Bexar County Medical Examiner's Office, and Jeffrey Kelly of the Department of Public Safety Crime Laboratory in El Paso.
We also recognize the outstanding work of our prosecution team. Prosecutors Erika Price, Scott Simpson, and Kenny Lam, Analyst Karen Dziuk, and Victim Advocate Katie Quinney worked tirelessly to present the evidence in a clear and compelling manner.
Successful prosecutions require the dedication and collaboration of law enforcement, forensic experts, victim advocates, and prosecutors, and this conviction is a testament to that teamwork.
Most importantly, we remember Jorge Erosa. Our thoughts remain with his family and loved ones as they continue to live with the loss caused by this senseless act of violence.
