A $10,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction in the murder case of 15-year-old Ethan Martinez, according to San Antonio police. The initial $5,000 put forth by Crime Stoppers has been matched by an anonymous friend of the Martinez family, effectively doubling the bounty in a bid to entice witnesses to come forward, as reported by KENS 5.
In the twilight of 2023, young Ethan was shot outside his apartment complex on Ray Ellison Blvd. His mother, Stephanie Solis, recounted the tragic events that led to her son's death, witnessing a barrage of 30-40 gunshots after her boy was lured outside under false pretenses. Solis, in statements obtained by KENS 5, shared that Ethan went to meet some girls to sell vape cartridges but, "They set him up, you know, for other people to come."
The mother's anguish hangs heavy, as she tries to reconcile with the violent loss of a son who "had a smile that would light up any room." Stephanie recounted his last moments to KENS 5, where she said, "He finally answered his phone and right away I heard it in his voice that he was hurt...but he didn't make it to the hospital."
Echoing the somber request of a grieving mother, Crime Stoppers and the San Antonio Police Department urge anyone with information to come forth. In a shared sentiment with local news, Solis expressed that while finding the perpetrators won't bring her son back, it would provide a much-needed closure for the family. In an interview given to KSAT, she conveyed her confidence, "It's just a matter of time, and is confident she will get justice for Ethan."
Tips can be directed to Crime Stoppers at 210-224-STOP, and the San Antonio Police Department continues its plea for public assistance in the case of Ethan Martinez.
