Corpus Christi Tire Shop Owner Arrested in Violent Kidnapping Scheme

FBI seeks additional victims after Victor 'Danny' Almaguer charged with conspiracy, fraud, and identity theft

Apr. 15, 2026 at 12:09am

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An extreme close-up of a shredded car tire tread, captured with a harsh, direct flash against a dark background, conveying a sense of gritty investigation into a violent crime.A violent kidnapping scheme tied to a Corpus Christi tire shop exposes the growing threat of online scams and identity theft.Corpus Christi Today

The FBI's Houston field office is seeking potential victims after the owner of a Corpus Christi tire shop, Victor 'Danny' Almaguer, was arrested on federal charges related to a violent kidnapping and fraud scheme. Almaguer and several co-defendants allegedly used a fake Facebook Marketplace post to lure a man to a location, then detained and assaulted him, forcing him to make cash withdrawals and purchase jewelry. Prosecutors say the group also used the victim's personal information to open accounts and apply for credit in his name.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing threat of violent crimes tied to online scams and identity theft. The FBI is concerned there may be additional victims connected to Almaguer's tire shops across Corpus Christi, underscoring the need for vigilance and cooperation from the public to identify and stop these types of predatory schemes.

The details

According to federal court documents, Almaguer and several co-defendants allegedly staged an online trap that turned violent. They used a fake Facebook Marketplace post to lure a man to a location on Baldwin Boulevard, where they detained and assaulted him, forcing him to make cash withdrawals and purchase $10,000 worth of jewelry. The group is also accused of using the victim's personal information to open accounts and apply for credit in his name after the attack.

  • On September 24, 2025, federal prosecutors unsealed an indictment against Almaguer and his co-defendants.
  • Almaguer has pleaded not guilty to the federal charges, which include conspiracy to kidnap, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft.

The players

Victor 'Danny' Almaguer

The owner of Danny's Tire Service in Corpus Christi, Texas, who has been arrested on federal charges related to a violent kidnapping and fraud scheme.

FBI Houston

The Houston field office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which is leading the investigation and seeking additional victims who may have been targeted by Almaguer and his co-defendants.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on whether to keep Almaguer behind bars while the federal prosecution moves forward.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for increased vigilance and cooperation from the public to identify and stop violent crimes tied to online scams and identity theft. The FBI's call for additional victims underscores the broader threat posed by predatory schemes centered on local businesses.