Hector Cuarenta Arrested – Authorities in Nacogdoches, Texas, have confirmed the arrest of 17-year-old Hector Cuarenta, who is accused of carrying out a fatal shooting on Hackberry Street that claimed the lives of three individuals. The arrest, announced by the Nacogdoches Police Department (NPD) on Saturday, October 25, 2025, comes after an intense manhunt that followed the tragic events of Friday, October 24.
According to official reports, officers responded to multiple calls of gunfire in the 700 block of Hackberry Street late Friday night. Upon arrival, police discovered three victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite immediate emergency response efforts, all three victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Among the deceased were 17-year-old Dequavious LeCharles Brooks and 18-year-old Edward Alejandro Rivera. The identity of the third victim has not yet been publicly released pending family notification.
Following the initial investigation, detectives quickly identified Hector Cuarenta, a resident of Nacogdoches, as the primary suspect. The NPD subsequently issued a warrant for his arrest on the charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, which has since been elevated in light of the fatalities. Police described Cuarenta as armed and dangerous and urged the public to avoid approaching him.
Law enforcement agencies worked through the night to locate Cuarenta, coordinating with regional and state authorities. He was taken into custody early Saturday morning without incident. Authorities have not disclosed the exact circumstances or location of his arrest but confirmed that no officers or civilians were injured during the operation.
Under Texas law, individuals aged 17 and older are legally classified as adults in criminal proceedings. As such, Cuarenta is being charged as an adult and is expected to face multiple counts of murder in addition to weapons-related charges. He is currently being held at the Nacogdoches County Jail, where he awaits his initial court appearance.
Investigators are continuing to determine the motive behind the shooting. Preliminary evidence suggests that the incident may have stemmed from an ongoing dispute, though authorities have not confirmed specific details. Police are also working to trace the firearm used in the crime and to determine whether other individuals were involved in aiding or concealing the suspect.
The Nacogdoches community has been left shaken by the violence, particularly given the young ages of those involved. Residents have expressed grief and concern, emphasizing the urgent need to address youth violence and gun-related crimes in the region. Local leaders and faith-based organizations are reportedly planning a candlelight vigil in honor of the victims.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information related to the shooting to contact the Nacogdoches Police Department or Nacogdoches Crime Stoppers. The investigation remains ongoing.