Laredo Shooting Leaves Teen in Critical Condition, Suspect Still at Large

Police urge 16-year-old suspect to surrender as three others face charges in premeditated confrontation

Feb. 3, 2026 at 4:15pm

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A planned fight in Laredo, Texas turned violent on Monday, leaving an 18-year-old man in critical condition after being shot in the head. Police have arrested three suspects - Dilan Jhosafat Herrera, 19; Brian Alexander Rosales, 19; and Julio Cruz, 18 - but a 16-year-old alleged shooter remains at large. Authorities are urging the teen suspect to turn himself in voluntarily.

Why it matters

Gun violence involving young offenders is an ongoing concern in Laredo, which has seen an increase in youth-related crimes in recent years. This incident highlights the need for better intervention and prevention programs to address the root causes of youth violence in the community.

The details

According to police, the shooting occurred on Monday evening after the group of teens coordinated a meetup through text messages to settle an ongoing feud. Investigators say Cruz brought a firearm and another individual brought a knife. The confrontation left Rafael Castillo, 18, shot in the head and in critical condition, while Julio Cruz was stabbed in the back. Herrera, Rosales and Cruz have all been charged with second-degree felony assault with a deadly weapon, while Rosales faces additional charges.

  • The shooting occurred on Monday, February 3, 2026 around 4:30 p.m.
  • Police held a press conference on Tuesday, February 4, 2026 to provide updates on the case.

The players

Rafael Castillo

An 18-year-old who was shot in the head and is in critical condition.

Dilan Jhosafat Herrera

A 19-year-old charged with second-degree felony assault with a deadly weapon.

Brian Alexander Rosales

A 19-year-old charged with second-degree felony assault with a deadly weapon, first-degree felony aggravated assault of a public servant, third-degree felony tampering with physical evidence, and a Class A misdemeanor for evading arrest or detention.

Julio Cruz

An 18-year-old charged with second-degree felony assault with a deadly weapon after being stabbed in the back.

Miguel Rodriguez Jr.

The Laredo Police Chief who urged the 16-year-old suspect to turn himself in.

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What they’re saying

“He has to turn himself in. I don't think they'd like us to be knocking on doors asking for him.”

— Miguel Rodriguez Jr., Laredo Police Chief

“What he did — he is no 16-year-old in my eyes. The altercation and what happened after the altercation — he is somebody who knows what he is doing. He shouldn't escape. He should turn himself in.”

— Miguel Rodriguez Jr., Laredo Police Chief

What’s next

The judge will decide on Thursday, February 6th whether to grant bail for the three suspects who have been arrested.

The takeaway

This shooting underscores the ongoing challenge of youth violence in Laredo and the need for the community to come together to address the root causes, including better access to mental health resources, conflict resolution programs, and economic opportunities for young people.