A Houston neighborhood is still reeling after an 18-year-old was shot multiple times by his neighbor while burying his family’s pet guinea pig.
Police say 46-year-old John Martin Dixon opened fire on Emmanuel Menchaca in the family’s backyard late at night on July 17. Menchaca spent more than two weeks in intensive care before beginning to recover.
Despite video evidence and eyewitness accounts, it took more than a month for officers to locate Dixon, who was eventually arrested August 25 and charged with two counts of aggravated assault.
The case has also drawn attention because Menchaca and his family are undocumented immigrants. Advocates say the delay in the arrest left the family living in fear and highlighted how vulnerable immigrant families can be in the aftermath of violent crimes.
Police stress that immigration status has no impact on the charges, and prosecutors say they are moving forward with the case based solely on the evidence.
Dixon, once listed among Texas’ “Top 10 Most Wanted Fugitives,” is now being held on bond. The Menchaca family says they are grateful for community support but want to see swift justice.
Emmanuel has always been a loving, selfless, and goofy soul who has a huge love for animals and brings joy to everyone around him, according to his GoFundme.
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