Body Discovered at Downtown San Antonio Apartment Complex
San Antonio has recently been rocked by some unsettling news as authorities continue to investigate two troubling deaths at a downtown apartment complex tailored for individuals with disabilities and seniors. The city is grappling with added concerns over security after these shocking developments.
Two Homicides in Just Days
Just four days apart, the bodies of two men were found at Victoria Plaza, an apartment complex located in the 400 block of Barrera, not far from the iconic Tower of the Americas. This week, police were called to the scene after receiving reports about a dead person in one of the units. The victim was identified as Donnell Sterling, 52, a father of four and a chef at Good Time Charlie’s. Family members were devastated, expressing their disbelief and heartbreak over this tragic loss. “We’re gonna find out who did it because that’s just not right. That’s just not fair,” said his sister, Bridgett Sterling.
Family members shared that they last heard from Donnell on September 26, and his mother reported having trouble reaching him since Sunday. The conditions surrounding his death remain unclear, although preliminary reports suggest it may involve blunt force trauma or a firearm.
Another Victim Uncovered
Just days before Sterling’s body was discovered, 59-year-old Nick Martinez was also found dead in his apartment. On that Tuesday morning, police were conducting a welfare check when they stumbled upon his body. Investigators quickly pointed to foul play, with the Bexar County Medical Examiner ruling Martinez’s death a homicide due to sharp force injury. Reports indicate that Martinez’s death and Sterling’s homicide are linked by their proximity, leaving residents nervous and wary.
Community on Edge
The proximity of these two violent incidents has left many residents feeling uneasy. “After 5:00, or when it gets dark, I’m going to be scared to death,” shared Michael Hurn, a resident of the complex. Fellow resident Bonita Alvarado echoed those sentiments, noting how the area is supposed to foster safety and opportunity. “We’re waking up to dead bodies… it’s just very chaotic. Most of us fear for our lives,” she said, clearly shaken by the incidents.
Authority’s Response to Safety Concerns
In light of these tragic events, Opportunity Home San Antonio, the public housing authority overseeing the facility, is stepping back to reassess security measures at Victoria Plaza. In a concerned statement, they emphasized that the safety and wellbeing of residents is a priority and that they take all security concerns seriously. While they cannot delve into the specifics at this time due to the ongoing investigations, they made it clear that they are actively cooperating with local law enforcement.
Opportunity Home outlined their security measures, which include enhanced electronic access, security cameras, and synchronized security patrols. They have even collaborated with community partners on initiatives aimed at preventing violence and fostering a sense of security among residents.
A Call for Community Vigilance
In these troubling times, it’s crucial for residents to stay vigilant. Opportunity Home encouraged all residents to report suspicious activity immediately and emphasized the importance of calling 911 in case of emergencies.
Seeking Answers
The community is hopeful that authorities will unveil more information as investigations into both deaths progress. Residents are yearning for justice and answers, and family members such as Bridgett Sterling firmly believe that the truth will come to light. “My brother loved his family. He loved his kids. They don’t deserve this,” she remarked, highlighting the heart-wrenching pain these losses have inflicted on everyone involved.
As this story develops, we await further updates that could shed light on the circumstances surrounding these tragic events. For now, the community remains united in their hopes for safety and justice.
