In Uvalde, Texas, the grief-stricken families of Robb Elementary School mass shooting victims demanded the resignation of Uvalde County Commissioner Mariano Pargas in a County Commissioners Court meeting yesterday. Pargas is under fire for his role as acting Uvalde Police Department chief during the deadly incident, which was scrutinized in a recent Department of Justice report. He was notably absent from the proceedings, according to Fox San Antonio.
Families have been haunted by the memory of the May 24, 2022, tragedy, demanding accountability 20 months later, with many turning out in droves at the court meeting. Velma Lisa Duran, sister of slain teacher Irma Garcia, condemned Pargas's inaction, saying, "He indirectly assisted Salvador Ramos in murdering children and teachers,” in a statement to MyFox28Columbus. The victims' relatives, amid their calls for justice, stressed that Pargas's lack of leadership and adequate training contributed to the tragedy.
The DOJ's investigation into the law enforcement response revealed that Pargas did not assume control of the situation despite being one of the first on the scene and holding the rank of senior officer. His insufficient training in active shooter situations meant he was unaware of the necessary protocol, leading to a delay in action. "UPD Acting Chief Pargas continued to provide no direction, command, or control to personnel," the DOJ report explicitly stated. Sharply criticizing Pargas's leadership, Brett Cross, guardian of victim Uziyah Garcia, stated, "When you hear that children are dying and you walk away, if you walk away on our kids, does the county not think that he is going to walk away on them?" a sentiment captured by Fox San Antonio.
Some of the meeting's most poignant demonstrators were survivors of the shooting. Students Khloie Torres, Miah Cerrillo, Kendall Olivarez, and AJ Martinez were present, brandishing signs questioning the law enforcement response to their calls for help. Uvalde County Judge Bill Mitchell informed the gathering that the commissioners' court could not remove an elected official and that a jury trial would be necessary should they seek Pargas's ousting. Families indicated they are prepared to initiate this legal process. Mitchell, in a conversation about personal influence, stated, "I don't know that I have that much of an influence with him and share with him what was said today," as MyFox28Columbus reported.
