The family of a victim from the tragic 2021 Garland Texaco triple-murder continues to seek closure as the primary suspect remains at large. Four years have passed since the shocking incident, where a 14-year-old boy, Abel Acosta, aided by his father, took the lives of three teenagers at a gas station.
Abel Acosta, now 18, is believed to be hiding in Mexico, while his father, Richard Acosta, is currently serving a life sentence for his role in the killings. The victims—Ivan Noyola, Rafael Garcia, and Xavier Gonzalez—are remembered by their loved ones, who are still searching for answers in this unresolved case.
For Lluneli Lopez, the mother of Xavier Gonzalez, the holiday season has become a painful reminder of her son’s absence. The family’s tradition of celebrating Christmas has been replaced with visits to his gravesite. “The teenager who did this is still on the run, and we haven’t received any answers,” Lopez expressed, highlighting the ongoing anguish of losing her son.
Xavier, just 14 at the time, had gone to the Texaco to buy tacos for his family when he was tragically killed. His family remembers him for his joyful spirit and ability to make others laugh. “Without him, it’s not the same anymore,” Lopez lamented.
The Garland Police Department is actively pursuing leads in the case, collaborating with federal law enforcement agencies. Despite the passage of time, the police remain hopeful for new information that could lead to Acosta’s capture. “The last thing I knew was that he was in Mexico,” Lopez stated, emphasizing the need for community support in the search.
Richard Acosta was found guilty of capital murder for facilitating the attack that claimed the lives of the three teens. In a statement to the public, Lopez urged anyone with information to come forward. “It’s not fair. A 14-year-old took my son’s life for no reason,” she said, pleading for justice.
To encourage tips, Garland CrimeStoppers has set up a reward of $17,000 for information leading to Abel Acosta’s whereabouts. In a unique approach, CrimeStoppers humorously suggested on social media that they would like to offer Acosta’s mother the chance to see her son again—this time in prison.
