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FBI Offers $50K Reward for Texas Fugitive in Deadly Convenience Store Shooting
Abel Elias Acosta, accused of killing three teens in 2021, has been on the run for years.
Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:58pm
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The FBI's $50,000 reward for information on a Texas fugitive accused of a deadly convenience store shooting underscores the ongoing pursuit of justice.Dallas TodayThe FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the capture of Abel Elias Acosta, a Texas fugitive accused of killing three teenagers in a 2021 shooting at a Garland, Texas convenience store. Acosta, who was 14 at the time of the murders, has been on the run since the incident and is believed to have fled to Mexico.
Why it matters
This case has deeply impacted the Garland community, leaving many searching for justice. The FBI's reward highlights the ongoing efforts to bring Acosta to trial and provides an opportunity for the public to assist in locating the suspected killer.
The details
On December 26, 2021, Garland police responded to a call at a local convenience store, where they found three juveniles, ages 14, 16, and 17, dead and a fourth critically injured. Investigators identified the shooter as 14-year-old Abel Acosta, who then vanished without a trace. In December 2025, Dallas County issued a warrant charging Acosta with capital murder of multiple persons. Authorities believe Acosta fled to Mexico, where he may still be hiding.
- On December 26, 2021, the Garland Police responded to a call at a local convenience store.
- On December 17, 2025, Dallas County issued a warrant charging Abel Acosta with capital murder of multiple persons.
- On January 26, 2026, a federal arrest warrant was issued in the Northern District of Texas for Acosta's unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
The players
Abel Elias Acosta
A Hispanic male, born on November 12, 2007, in Garland, Texas, who was 14 years old at the time of the 2021 convenience store shooting and is now 18. He is considered armed and dangerous.
Garland Police Department
The local law enforcement agency that responded to the 2021 convenience store shooting and is working with the FBI to locate Acosta.
FBI
The federal law enforcement agency that is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the capture of Abel Elias Acosta.
What they’re saying
“For the family, friends, and the entire community, this case remains a wound that cannot begin to heal until justice is served. We remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing that justice, and we are grateful for the continued partnership of the FBI and all agencies working alongside us.”
— Jeff Bryan, Chief of the Garland Police Department
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Abel Elias Acosta out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in apprehending dangerous fugitives, especially those who may have fled across state or international borders. The FBI's reward underscores the determination to bring closure to the victims' families and the Garland community.
