SAN ANTONIO — A mother mourns the tragic loss of her son, calling for urgent action from city officials regarding an alleged after-hours club linked to violence in the community. Heavyn Sanchez is grappling with the recent murder of her son, Jon Kross Perez, who was shot Sunday morning at a location that has drawn scrutiny over the years.
Sanchez expressed her profound sorrow and frustration as she reflected on the circumstances surrounding her son’s death. “I don’t know how to cope with this loss,” she said, noting that Perez was gunned down at what authorities describe as an unpermitted venue on Rigsby Avenue, notorious for previous violent incidents.
The property, masquerading as a 1950s home, has been transformed into a venue where festivities are alleged to take place, drawing concerns from residents. According to city zoning laws, it is not licensed to operate as a bar or nightclub, yet reports show that activities suggest otherwise. Following the shooting, city officials found evidence of a makeshift bar and entertainment setup inside the building, which was unpermitted.
Despite this, Sanchez questioned why the city has allowed this establishment to function unchecked for years. She pointed out previous violent events linked to the property, emphasizing, “This isn’t the first time someone has died here.” Citing past incidents, she lamented, “It has been shut down before, only for someone else to reopen it.”
Sanchez raised concerns over the city’s apparent inaction, pointing to the community’s growing frustration. She called for more proactive measures, likening the city’s oversight of the venue to sting operations conducted at convenience stores caught selling to minors. “If those businesses are monitored, why isn’t this place being held accountable?” she asked.
Active in her community and driven by a desire for justice, Sanchez asserted that she would not rest until her son’s legacy is honored. “I will not let this be swept under the rug. My son was involved in charitable acts; I will fight for what is right,” she vowed.
City officials are aware of the “serious concerns” surrounding the venue’s activities. Eric Burns, an assistant city attorney, stated that the Dangerous Assessment Response Team evaluates properties based on established criteria, though he did not confirm whether this venue is currently under review. “Not every location associated with criminal activity meets the threshold for enforcement action,” he noted.
Sanchez, reflecting on the severity of the situation, questioned the effectiveness of these measures. “Two lives have been lost. What more will it take for the city to act?” she said with determination.
As investigations into the venue’s operations continue, Sanchez and her family have drawn strength from their community’s support and prayers. “He was a loving father and friend, always helping others. This tragedy was unwarranted,” she reflected on her son’s character.
In light of their loss, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist with funeral expenses and to support Perez’s two children, ages five and six. Sanchez remains focused on seeking justice for her son, embodying a resolve shared by many in the community calling for change. “I will not stop fighting. Justice for Kross!” she exclaimed, affirming her commitment to seek accountability and reform.