Manhunt Underway After Jeremy Benavidez Fatally Shot in Dilley; Cousin Identified as Suspect

Manhunt Underway After Jeremy Benavidez Fatally Shot in Dilley; Cousin Identified as Suspect

DILLEY, TX — June 21, 2025 — Authorities in Frio County have launched an intensive manhunt after 23-year-old Jeremy Benavidez was shot and killed early Saturday morning in Dilley. The suspected gunman, now wanted for murder, is believed to be Benavidez’s own cousin.

Frio County Sheriff Peter Salinas confirmed the victim’s identity as Jeremy Benavidez, a resident of Dilley, and stated that the shooting took place around 2 a.m. in the 400 block of Curtis Street. Dilley police officers and Frio County deputies responded to the scene after reports of gunfire in the area.

“Once they arrived, they located a male suffering from multiple gunshot wounds,” said Sheriff Salinas. “He was later identified as Jeremy Benavidez, 23 years old, of Dilley. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene.”

Sheriff Salinas reported that Benavidez was shot multiple times, including in the stomach and back. Before he passed away, the young man was able to speak to first responders and name his shooter — his cousin, 49-year-old Rosendo Rodriguez, also of Dilley.

Investigators began working the scene and speaking to witnesses. Based on the evidence and Benavidez’s statement, authorities quickly identified Rodriguez as the prime suspect. Surveillance footage later captured Rodriguez at approximately 2:30 a.m. at the Refuel Convenience Store in Pearsall, a nearby town roughly 17 miles away.

An arrest warrant for murder has been issued for Rosendo Rodriguez, who is currently at large.

Rodriguez is described as:

• Hispanic male, 5’8”, 175 pounds
• Brown eyes, black hair
• Has a left prosthetic leg
• Has several tattoos on his arm

Law enforcement officials, including the Texas Rangers, are assisting in the active search. Sheriff Salinas emphasized that Rodriguez is considered armed and dangerous, and the public should not attempt to confront him.

“If anyone has any information about Rodriguez’s whereabouts, we urge you to contact the Frio County Sheriff’s Office immediately,” said Salinas. “He poses a serious threat and must be apprehended.”

The motive behind the fatal shooting remains unclear, but authorities believe the killing was targeted. As investigators continue their work, loved ones of Jeremy Benavidez are mourning a devastating loss that has shaken the Dilley community.

“Jeremy was a kind-hearted young man,” said one family friend. “To be taken like this — and by family — it’s just unthinkable.”

Anyone with tips or sightings of Rosendo Rodriguez is asked to call the Frio County Sheriff’s Office at (830) 334-1446 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477). All calls can remain anonymous.