x
Breaking News
More () »

Dying declaration from 18-year-old found shot leads to arrest

Officials said the suspect and victim were life-long bestfriends.

SAN ANTONIO — An 18-year-old who was found with several gunshot wounds was able to give police the name of the alleged shooter before he died. 

Around 1 a.m. Saturday, the Bexar County Sheriff's Office responded to the 2000 block of South Loop 1604 East after receiving reports of a shooting.

Upon arrival, deputies found the victim with several gunshot wounds to his upper body. When deputies began talking to the victim, he was able to give what authorities call a "dying declaration" where he gave the name of the suspect who had allegedly shot him.

The victim, identified as Ricky De Los Santos, was taken to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Authorities began searching for the suspect, who was identified as 18-year-old Daniel Hernandez. He was arrested the same day.

On Friday, April 12, the sheriff's office announced the arrest of Diego Salazar, 17, on a murder warrant. He is accused of driving Hernandez to the victim's home.

Credit: KENS 5
Daniel Hernandez, 18, and Diego Salazar, 17.

During the early stages of their investigation and speaking with the victim's family, officials learned that Hernandez and the victim had been lifelong best friends.

The preliminary investigation leads officials to believe that Hernandez went to the victim's residence to try on a pair of shoes that he was going to purchase from the victim.

Officials said they aren't certain on what exactly happened in the residence, but at one point, Hernandez reportedly pulled out a small "knock-off" AK-47 type weapon. Authorities believe this could be the murder weapon used in this case.

The weapon has not been located as officials said they believe Hernandez disposed of the weapon at some point.

BCSO said they will have a heightened level of police activity in the area as they are searching for the gun.

Authorities believe the weapon could be concealed in a black bag and urge people to not touch the weapon if located. Instead, call BCSO at (210)-335-6000.

Both Hernandez and Salazar are facing murder charges in this case.

This is an ongoing investigation and KENS 5 will update this story as more information becomes available.

Before You Leave, Check This Out