LAKE JACKSON, Texas – A father is left with an unbearable grief and unanswered questions after his 18-year-old son, John Mendoza Jr., was shot and killed by a Brazoria County sheriff’s deputy just after midnight Monday inside the family’s own garage.
“You ruined my son’s life and you ruined my life. It will never be the same,” John Mendoza told KPRC 2 News reporter Sandy Torres. “I walked out and saw my son laying there. I grabbed his hand and said, ‘Baby, I love you.’”
Mendoza said his son, a Texas State football player, had just begun enjoying the first couple of weeks of summer break. He described John Jr. as a dedicated student, athlete, and well-known member of the community who had dreams of one day becoming a state trooper after graduating from Texas State.
“My son was murdered in his garage, and this just isn’t right,” Mendoza said. “This is a senseless situation that could have been avoided.”
According to the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy attempted a traffic stop involving Mendoza Jr. near FM 2004 in Lake Jackson. The deputy followed Mendoza Jr. home, entered the garage, and allegedly discharged his firearm accidentally. The incident has left the family with deep questions about why there was no de-escalation.
“It is one thing to shoot at a car or a tire, but everybody’s life is important,” Mendoza said. “This is something you can’t take back.”
Overwhelming support has continued to pour into the Mendoza home. Members of LULAC Houston joined the family Tuesday, calling for accountability.
“Another senseless death of a promising young man from our community,” said Sergio Lira, president of LULAC Houston. “At times when one is afraid, home should be a safe haven.”
LULAC is calling on the Brazoria County District Attorney’s Office to bring in an independent investigator to review the case. The Texas Rangers say they are investigating the shooting from square one, gathering evidence before formulating their investigative findings.
The Brazoria County District Attorney’s Office is also investigating. The deputy involved has been placed on paid administrative leave.
Through his grief, Mendoza said he holds onto one hope.
“I just hope that justice is served,” he said. “What’s right is right.”