HOUSTON, Texas – The Houston community and family members of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office deputy whose life was taken in a senseless act of violence last month, will now be able to visit a mural in his honor.
Located in East End, at the Taqueria Monchy’s restaurant, lies a newly painted mural in honor of 28-year-old Fernando Esqueda who was shot to death on July 10 after he encountered 44-year-old Ronald Palmer who police say assaulted a Little Caesars employee over getting his order wrong.
Thank you, Taqueria Monchys, for the mural of fallen Harris County Sheriff's Office Deputy Fernando Esqueda. The community is welcome to visit the mural at 719 Telephone Rd. Gone but never forgotten.🕊️
Posted by Ed Gonzalez on Tuesday, August 13, 2024
During the reveal of the mural Friday, HCSO Major Saul Suarez, a close friend of Esqueda, spoke with KPRC 2 about the significance of the mural and the emotional impact it has on those who knew the fallen deputy.
According to Major Suarez, the mural’s presence in the East End, where Deputy Esqueda grew up, is particularly meaningful.
“This area is where Deputy Esqueda spent much of his life. It’s significant that this tribute is placed here,” Suarez said while speaking live from the mural.
Deputy Esqueda was known for his commitment to public service, his caring nature, and his relentless work ethic.
“He was a dedicated public servant with a humble smile and a positive energy that touched everyone around him,” Major Suarez reflected.
The mural not only honors Deputy Esqueda’s professional achievements but also his personal qualities. Major Suarez said Esqueda was known for his positive attitude and his ability to inspire and motivate those around him.
“He was a hard worker, always with a friendly smile, and his positive energy made a lasting impact on everyone he worked with,” Suarez said.
The mural was created by Suly Flores AKA “Ace Phoenix,” an artist with a personal connection to the deputy’s family.
“When the restaurant decided to honor Deputy Esqueda with a mural, they reached out to me because of my past work with them and my personal connection to Esqueda’s family. It was an honor to be chosen for this meaningful project,” Phoenix said.
The artist said completing the painting was no small task. Phoenix said she worked through intense heat, dedicating around three days and a final two hours to complete the artwork.
“The heat was my biggest challenge,” she said. “But I kept pushing through, driven by the importance of the project and my desire to honor Deputy Esqueda properly. “The family was thrilled with how it turned out. They feel it truly represents his spirit and dedication.”