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Ed Scott Identified by City of Midland as Employee Killed in Midland Mass Shooting

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Ed Scott Identified by City of Midland as Employee Killed in Midland Mass Shooting West Wall Street Industrial Avenue, and Eisenhower Street
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MIDLAND, Texas — The City of Midland has identified Ed Scott as the victim who was killed during the deadly mass shooting that unfolded in Midland on June 12, 2026, a tragedy that also left 10 other people injured and sent shockwaves throughout West Texas.

In an emotional statement, city officials confirmed that Scott was one of their own employees and described the loss as one of the most difficult moments the organization and community have ever faced.

Following the tragic shooting, Midland city leaders announced that Ed Scott, a respected city employee, was the individual who lost his life during the violent incident.

Officials expressed profound grief while extending condolences to Scott’s family, friends, coworkers, and everyone affected by the tragedy.

“Behind every employee badge is a husband or wife, a mother or father, a son or daughter, a friend, a teammate, and a person whose life touched countless others,” the city said in a public statement. “Today, a family is experiencing a loss that words cannot adequately describe, and our hearts are with them.”

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The city asked residents and members of the media to respect the family’s privacy as they navigate the devastating loss.

Friends, coworkers, and community members remembered Scott as a dedicated public servant, devoted family man, and active member of the Midland community.

According to city officials, Scott worked closely with local and regional softball organizations and was well known for his involvement in community activities. Those who knew him described him as a caring husband, loving father, and a person whose positive influence extended far beyond his professional responsibilities.

City leaders said his death leaves a tremendous void among colleagues and residents who knew him personally.

The fatal shooting occurred Friday morning and triggered a massive law enforcement response across Midland.

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According to authorities, the suspect was identified as Victor Mata Villarreal, 45, of Odessa, who was already wanted on charges related to a previous shooting involving a Midland police officer earlier in the week.

Investigators said Villarreal opened fire on officers and civilians before barricading himself inside an abandoned veterinary clinic near West Wall Street, Industrial Avenue, and Eisenhower Street.

Law enforcement agencies quickly surrounded the building in an effort to contain the threat and protect the public.

Texas Department of Public Safety officials said Villarreal was wanted for attempted capital murder of a peace officer following a late-night traffic stop that occurred on June 10.

Authorities allege that Villarreal fired at law enforcement officers during that encounter before fleeing.

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On June 12, investigators identified him as the gunman responsible for the Midland active shooter incident.

Following a lengthy standoff, officers used robotic equipment and aerial drone technology to assess the situation inside the building.

Midland Mayor Lori Blong later confirmed that Villarreal was found dead inside the structure at approximately 12:30 p.m.

Authorities stated that the threat to the public had been eliminated and the situation was officially resolved.

The mass shooting resulted in multiple injuries, prompting emergency responses from hospitals across the region.

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Midland Memorial Hospital reported receiving nine patients connected to the shooting.

Hospital officials said:

  • Five patients were treated and later released.
  • Four victims required surgery.
  • Three patients were recovering after surgery.
  • One patient remained in surgery during the initial updates.
  • Two additional victims remained in stable condition in the emergency department.

Medical Center Hospital in Odessa confirmed it treated another shooting victim who underwent surgery and was later listed in fair condition.

The incident prompted assistance from numerous local, state, and federal agencies, including:

  • Texas Department of Public Safety
  • Texas Rangers
  • Midland Police Department
  • Midland County Sheriff’s Office
  • Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team
  • Federal law enforcement partners
  • Federal Bureau of Investigation

FBI Director Kash Patel announced that federal agents and victim services personnel were deployed to assist local authorities and provide support for victims and their families.

Odessa Mayor Cal Hendrick released a statement expressing solidarity with Midland and the families impacted by the tragedy.

Hendrick described the shooting as a heartbreaking event that affected all of West Texas and praised the efforts of first responders, law enforcement officers, and emergency personnel who responded with courage and professionalism.

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He emphasized that the communities of Odessa and Midland stand united during the recovery process and pledged continued support for those affected.

Authorities continue to process evidence and investigate the circumstances surrounding the mass shooting.

Officials have not yet released additional information regarding Villarreal’s motives or the events that led to the deadly attack.

As the investigation continues, community members are mourning the loss of Ed Scott, whose death has become a symbol of the profound human cost of the tragedy.

The City of Midland has vowed to support Scott’s family and honor his memory while continuing to assist all victims affected by one of the most devastating acts of violence the region has experienced in recent years.

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Crime

24-Year-Old Jose Alfredo Soto Navarrete Jr Dies in Fatal Jeep Incident in Midland, Christian Rojelio Zubia Arrested

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24-Year-Old Jose Alfredo Soto Navarrete Jr Dies in Fatal Jeep Incident in Midland, Christian Rojelio Zubia Arrested 1700 block of Rankin Highway
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MIDLAND, Texas — Jose Alfredo Soto Navarrete Jr., a 24-year-old man from Odessa, died after an incident involving a Jeep Wrangler in Midland on Thursday night, October 8, 2026. The driver, a 30-year-old Odessa man, was later arrested and charged with manslaughter, according to the Midland Police Department.

Police said officers responded at approximately 10:46 p.m. Thursday to a reported crash involving a 2018 Jeep Wrangler and a pedestrian in the 1700 block of Rankin Highway.

During the preliminary investigation, witnesses told authorities that Soto Navarrete had jumped onto the hood of a black Jeep Wrangler. Investigators allege that the driver accelerated while turning southbound, causing Soto Navarrete to fall from the vehicle and sustain fatal injuries.

Authorities identified the driver as Christian Rojelio Zubia, 30, of Odessa.

According to police, Zubia left the scene after the incident. Officers later located him with assistance from the Odessa Police Department.

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Zubia was arrested and charged with manslaughter in connection with Soto Navarrete’s death. The charge is an allegation, and the case will proceed through the legal system.

The Midland Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident, including the events leading up to Soto Navarrete’s fall from the Jeep.

Authorities have not released further details about what prompted the encounter or whether additional charges may be considered.

Police confirmed that Soto Navarrete’s next of kin has been notified of his death.

Soto Navarrete’s death has left his family and loved ones grieving. His passing serves as a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly a dangerous incident can result in a fatal outcome.

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The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information may be released as authorities continue reviewing the case.


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