Ethan DeLeon, 18, Fatally Shot by 13-Year-Old Suspect at Benton Park in Amarillo on April 22, 2025

On the evening of Tuesday, April 22, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded at Benton Park in Amarillo, Texas, resulting in the death of 18-year-old Ethan DeLeon. The suspect, a 13-year-old male, was arrested and charged with murder following the fatal shooting. This event has left the Amarillo community in shock and raised pressing questions about youth violence and firearm access.

Incident Overview

At approximately 7:30 p.m. on April 22, the Amarillo Police Department responded to a report of a shooting at Benton Park, located in the 1400 block of South Vernon Street in east Amarillo. Upon arrival, officers discovered Ethan DeLeon suffering from a gunshot wound inside a vehicle parked at the scene. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by officers and paramedics, DeLeon was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigation and Arrest

Following the incident, detectives from the Amarillo Police Department Homicide Unit launched an investigation. Through their efforts, they determined that the alleged shooter was a 13-year-old male. The juvenile suspect was taken into custody and booked into the Youth Center of the High Plains on a charge of murder.

Crime Scene Investigators remained on site for several hours, collecting evidence and processing the scene. Authorities have not yet released details regarding the motive behind the shooting or how the suspect came into possession of a firearm.

Community Reaction

The shooting has left the Amarillo community in shock. Residents are grappling with the involvement of such a young individual in a deadly act of violence. Local leaders and organizations are calling for increased efforts to address youth violence and ensure that firearms do not fall into the hands of minors.

Ongoing Investigation

The Amarillo Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the APD Homicide Unit at (806) 378-9468 or submit tips anonymously through Amarillo Crime Stoppers at (806) 374-4400.

Conclusion

The tragic death of Ethan DeLeon has raised significant concerns about youth violence and firearm access in Amarillo. As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that answers will emerge and that steps will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.