Teen murder suspect Abel Acosta still eludes capture 5 years later

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Abel Acosta, accused of a deadly 2021 shooting that killed three teenagers and injured a fourth in Garland, Texas, remains at large five years later. Authorities believe Acosta, who was 14 at the time of the incident, is still being helped by someone and may have fled to Mexico, but they caution he could still be in the U.S. The families of the victims are still seeking justice, as memorials to the slain teens remain and birthdays are marked without them.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in apprehending a juvenile suspect who has evaded capture for an extended period, as well as the lasting impact on the victims' families who are still waiting for justice. It also raises questions about the role of the suspect's father, who was convicted of capital murder for allegedly aiding his son, and the possibility that Acosta may have fled the country.

The details

On December 26, 2021, Abel Acosta, then 14 years old, is accused of opening fire inside a Garland, Texas convenience store, killing three teenagers and critically injuring a fourth. Surveillance video shows Acosta's father, Richard Acosta, driving Acosta to the store and then quickly leaving after the shooting. Richard Acosta was convicted of capital murder for his alleged role in the crime. Authorities believe Acosta was part of a gang and that the shooting was not random, though one of the victims was an innocent bystander. Despite a nationwide manhunt involving federal partners, Acosta has evaded capture for five years, leading investigators to believe he is being helped by someone, possibly with ties to Mexico.

• On December 26, 2021, the deadly shooting occurred at the Garland convenience store.
• Five years later, in 2026, Abel Acosta remains at large.

What’s next

The judge in Richard Acosta's case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow him out on bail.