Manuel Garza, Jr., Executed in Texas

Manuel Garza, Jr., Texas

April 15, 2015

Manuel Fernando Garza Jr. was executed by the state of Texas on Wednesday, April 15, 2015. He was pronounced dead at 6:40 pm, inside the Walls Unit execution chamber at the Huntsville State Penitentiary in Huntsville, Texas. Manuel was 34 years of age. He was executed for the murder of 37-year-old police officer John “Rocky” Riojas on February 2, 2001, in San Antonio, Texas. Manuel spent the last 12 years of his life on death row in Texas.

Manuel was abused as a child and had an unstable family environment. His mother drank while pregnant with him, causing him to have fetal alcohol syndrome. Manuel dropped out of school during the 10th grade. He worked as a short-order cook prior to his arrest. Manuel had a history of drug abuse and various crimes, including robbery, burglary, and drug crimes. He was also a member of a gang.

Manuel Garza was stopped by Officer John Riojas, who was in a marked police vehicle, on February 2, 2001. Garza knew that there were several outstanding warrants for his arrest. Instead of compelling with Officer Riojas’ instructions to place his hands on the car, Garza took off running.  Officer Riojas pursued. Garza later stated that he ran because he did not want to return to jail.

Officer Riojas caught up with Garza and the two began fighting. During the fight, Garza managed to obtain Officer Riojas’ weapon. Garza fired the weapon at Officer Riojas, killing him. He was arrested two days later.

Garza was convicted and sentenced to death on November 8, 2002.

Please pray for peace and healing for the family of Officer John Riojas. Please pray for strength for the family of Manuel Garza.

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