Crime
Ruben Gonzales Charged With Capital Murder in Big Spring Double Homicide That Killed Willis Duval and Marcus Pena
BIG SPRING, Texas — A 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged with capital murder following a deadly double shooting late Thursday night in Big Spring that left two men dead, according to authorities.
The Big Spring Police Department said officers were dispatched to the 1600 block of Oriole Street at approximately 11:05 p.m. on May 22, 2026, following reports of shots fired in the neighborhood.
When officers and deputies with the Howard County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the scene, they discovered two men lying in the front yard of a residence in the 1600 block of Oriole Street.
The victims were identified as 44-year-old Willis J. Duval and 23-year-old Marcus D. Pena.
Emergency responders from the Big Spring Fire Department and Allegiance EMS attempted lifesaving measures at the scene, but both victims succumbed to their injuries.
Investigators determined that both men had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. Justice of the Peace Averette later officially pronounced the victims deceased.
The Big Spring Police Department Criminal Investigations Division, identification personnel, and the Texas Rangers responded to assist with the homicide investigation.
Authorities said detectives and Texas Rangers immediately began interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and pursuing investigative leads connected to the shooting.
Following the investigation, officials said probable cause was established to charge 22-year-old Ruben A. Gonzales with capital murder.
Detectives and Texas Rangers obtained an arrest warrant, and Gonzales was taken into custody on the morning of May 23, 2026, at approximately 9:30 a.m. in the 1600 block of Canary Street.
He was booked into the Howard County Detention Center on the capital murder charge.
Authorities said the investigation into the fatal shooting remains active, and no additional information has been released at this time.
Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Big Spring Police Department.
Crime
Luca Hanlon, 19, Killed in Halloween Night Shooting Near CU Boulder Campus; Another Student Critically Injured
BOULDER, Colo. — What should have been a night of Halloween celebration turned into a devastating tragedy in Boulder after a shooting at a party near the University of Colorado Boulder campus claimed the life of 19-year-old student Luca Hanlon and left another student critically injured.
Hanlon, also 19, was identified as one of the victims of the shooting, which occurred on Saturday night, October 31, near the University Hill neighborhood.
According to the information provided, the shooting happened at approximately 11:28 p.m. at a residence near the intersection of Seventh and Marine streets.
The gathering was reportedly a Halloween party attended by young people in the area. However, the celebration was shattered when gunfire erupted, leaving two 19-year-old CU Boulder students wounded.
Luca Hanlon suffered fatal injuries and was killed in the shooting. Another 19-year-old student was also struck by gunfire and left in critical condition.
Halloween is traditionally a time for costumes, gatherings, and celebrations, particularly among college students. For those present that night, however, the evening became a frightening and heartbreaking experience.
The loss of a 19-year-old student is especially devastating. At an age when many young people are beginning to pursue their ambitions, build friendships, and look ahead to the future, Hanlon’s life was tragically cut short.
The shooting also left another young student fighting for their life, adding to the heartbreak surrounding the incident.
Luca Hanlon was just 19 years old. His death represents a profound loss for those who knew and loved him, as well as for the university community affected by this tragedy.
Behind every young life lost is a family, a circle of friends, and a future filled with possibilities that will never have the chance to unfold. His passing is a painful reminder of how quickly an ordinary night can change lives forever.
As the Boulder community reflects on the tragedy, thoughts remain with Hanlon’s loved ones and the injured student as they face an incredibly difficult time.
Our deepest condolences go out to Luca Hanlon’s family, friends, classmates, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking shooting. We also wish the injured student strength and hope for recovery.