A quiet Saturday afternoon in McAllen, Texas, shattered with a 911 call reporting a man down, unresponsive. The victim, Eddy Betancourt, a 61-year-old businessman and recent appointee of the governor, lay wounded, the scene hinting at a violent end.
Police arrived at the 800 block of North Ware Road to find Betancourt with no pulse, a single gunshot wound marking the grim reality. The initial assessment quickly escalated the situation to a homicide investigation, casting a shadow over the border city.
Eddy Betancourt was a man of diverse interests and significant local influence. Beyond his recent role on the Texas Facilities Commission, overseeing state building projects, he was a prominent figure in the business community, leading R&B General Construction Co. and holding key positions in other ventures.
Authorities swiftly identified Reynaldo Mata-Rios, 60, as a suspect in the shooting. A warrant for his arrest on a charge of first-degree murder was issued, initiating a search for a man described as six feet tall and weighing around 195 pounds.
As of Sunday afternoon, Mata-Rios had indicated an intention to surrender, yet remained at large. The delay fueled speculation and heightened concern as investigators worked to understand the circumstances surrounding the deadly encounter.
Betancourt’s involvement extended beyond business and state appointments. He served on the Hidalgo County Appraisal District Board and was an active member of both the McAllen and National Associations of Realtors, demonstrating a deep commitment to his community.
The investigation is ongoing, and a motive for the shooting remains elusive. Police are meticulously gathering evidence, hoping to piece together the events that led to Betancourt’s death and bring clarity to this unfolding tragedy.
The loss of Eddy Betancourt has sent ripples through McAllen and beyond. His death marks not only the end of a life, but also the loss of a dedicated public servant and a respected business leader.
