84-Year-Old San Antonio Man Found Murdered, Body Burned in Ditch

Community mourns the loss of a beloved local 'good Samaritan' who dedicated his life to helping others.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 3:48am

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Manuel 'Manny' Gomez Mendez Jr., an 84-year-old San Antonio resident known for his tireless community service and charitable work, was found murdered with his body burned in a ditch along a busy Southeast Side road. Friends and family are remembering Mendez as a selfless 'good Samaritan' who made a big difference in many people's lives through his volunteer efforts with local organizations.

Why it matters

The brutal murder of the elderly Mendez has shocked the local community, where he was widely respected for his decades of charitable work and selfless dedication to helping those in need. His death raises concerns about public safety and the vulnerability of senior citizens, while also highlighting the important role that community leaders and volunteers can play in supporting the most vulnerable members of society.

The details

According to authorities, Mendez's body was discovered burning in the brush along a busy road on the Southeast Side of San Antonio on March 28. Mendez, a father of two sons, was known for his volunteer work with local charities like Fechner and HIS BridgeBuilders, where he would often go out of his way to provide food, clothing, medical assistance, and other support to those in need. Friends described him as a 'roving good Samaritan' who was always looking to help his neighbors and the local community.

  • Mendez's body was found burning in a ditch on March 28, 2026.
  • A community vigil was held on April 4, 2026 to remember Mendez.

The players

Manuel 'Manny' Gomez Mendez Jr.

An 84-year-old San Antonio resident known for his tireless community service and charitable work, including volunteering with local organizations like Fechner and HIS BridgeBuilders.

Melvin Fechner

A friend of Mendez who witnessed the elderly man's selfless efforts to help those in need, providing food, clothing, medical assistance, and other support to community members.

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What they’re saying

“He made a big difference in a lot of people's lives, mine included. Always being with God's people, doing the work of God, to love God and love his neighbors.”

— Melvin Fechner, Friend of Manuel Mendez

What’s next

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mendez's murder and are appealing to the public for any information that could help solve the case.

The takeaway

The tragic death of Manuel Mendez, a beloved community leader known for his selfless acts of service, has left a void in San Antonio's East Side neighborhood. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role that volunteers and 'good Samaritans' can play in supporting the most vulnerable members of society, and the need to ensure the safety and security of all community members, especially the elderly.