Terry Rivera, the suspect in the shooting death of 12-year-old Carlos Fernandez, was recently granted a $2 million bond — a midpoint between the defense's suggestion and the state's higher ask. Rivera, who had been on the run since the March 4 incident, was detained at the U.S.-Mexico border, per FOX 26 Houston. Charged with capital murder for firing into his ex-partner's apartment in Harris County and subsequently killing the young boy — an act he initially attempted to flee from, Rivera's legal team highlighted his homelessness and the absence of a death penalty to justify a reduced bond.
The tragic killing unfolded when Rivera reportedly shot into the window while Carlos was asleep, the boy ultimately taking a fatal bullet after trying to run to his sisters' room. Arrested trying to cross into Mexico in Brownsville, Rivera's ex-girlfriend, Alva Cornejo, was also nabbed on accusations of hindering apprehension, her messages post-shooting suggesting an ill-conceived escape rather than surrender, stated in a report by Hoodline. She stands accused of providing Rivera with advice on border crossing while devising a casino trip as an alibi.
At the arraignment, the prosecution deemed Rivera a significant flight risk, taking into account his prior criminal behavior, which included charges of assault and making terroristic threats. Ashley Rostro, the mother of the young victim, recounted Rivera's alleged history of violence. Shortly before the shooting, Rostro had attempted unsuccessfully to secure a restraining order against Rivera, she told Hoodline.
Melanie Driscoll, a relative of the Fernandez family, expressed their collective relief and gratitude upon Rivera's capture. "Very happy with the hard work and dedication that was put into capturing him. Thanking everyone involved and the community for the support," she imparted in a message to KHOU 11 News, as mentioned by Hoodline.
