HOUSTON, Texas — A 24-year-old man has been charged with murder following the fatal shooting of a taco truck operator last week, according to local police. The incident, which took place on December 4, has left the community in shock as they mourn the loss of the beloved food vendor.
Authorities reported that the shooting occurred shortly before 11 p.m. at a taco truck located on West Dyna Drive. Family members discovered the victim, 36-year-old Yaddua Barraza Hernandez, after they grew concerned when he failed to contact them after his shift. Police Lieutenant Kahn noted that the victim’s family arrived on scene, prompting them to investigate his whereabouts.
Witnesses say two men approached the vehicle, with one firing shots inside while the other took cash from the register. This brazen act of violence sent shockwaves through the neighborhood, known for its tight-knit community and vibrant food culture. In the days that followed, the Houston Police Department launched an extensive investigation to identify the assailants.
Within a week, authorities named Angel Adonis Saldivar-James as the shooter responsible for Hernandez’s death. Investigators quickly worked to gather evidence and connect Saldivar-James to the crime, leading to his arrest on Monday. He is currently being held in the Harris County Jail, where he awaits his next court appearance.
The local taco truck community has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, with many highlighting Hernandez’s commitment to serving delicious food to the neighborhood. Friends and patrons remembered him as more than just a vendor, describing him as a caring individual who always offered a warm smile.
As the investigation continues, community members are calling for greater safety measures for food vendors, who are increasingly becoming targets of violence. “It’s terrifying to think that something like this could happen to someone just trying to make a living,” one local resident said.
A memorial has begun to form at the taco truck site, with friends and customers leaving flowers and notes to honor Hernandez’s memory. As the legal process unfolds, many hope for justice while advocating for a safer environment for all vendors.