HOUSTON – “He was so wonderful. Words can’t explain what kind of boy this is,” said Daniel Gonzales.
Daniel Gonzales was proud as he showed KPRC 2 a picture of his 12-year-old nephew, Carlos Fernandez. He said he watched Carlos grow up and taught him everything he knows about his lawn business.
“He loved to work. He was going to help his mom and buy some school clothes he worked with me in the summer, and it was just so touching. He was just such an angel,” said Gonzales.
On Monday, Gonzales lost his favorite right hand man. Deputies responded to the family’s apartment of Alderson Street. Investigators said a shooter went up to bedroom window and opened fire directly into the bedroom where Carlos was sleeping, killing him. Carlos’ two little sisters, his mother and another man were inside, but were not hurt.
“He loves his little sisters. He takes them to school and walks them to class,” said Gonzales.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as 27-year-old Terry Bryan Rivera, a former boyfriend of Carlos’ mother.
According to deputies, the shooting was targeted, but it is unclear why. Neighbors tell KPRC2 they saw deputies at the home on Friday after hearing yelling and loud banging coming from the apartment. Family members said it involved Carlos’ mother and a man.
“She opened the door and he forced himself in there. He put his hands around her neck and took a gun out,” said Grace Gonzales, Carlos’ Great Aunt.
No arrests were made on Friday. At this time, it’s unclear if that incident is connected to Monday’s shooting.
“We’re going to miss him. And we’re going to catch who did this to you,” said Gonzales.
Now only left with memories, Gonzales and the rest of Carlos’ family, is fighting for justice for his nephew.
The family said they plan to lay Gonzales to rest on Monday.
Crimestoppers is offering an up to $5,000 reward for information that can lead to an arrest. You can remain anonymous by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477). The Harris County Sheriffs Office is asking for anyone with information to come forward.
(281) 564-5988