The San Antonio Police Department is contending with two homicides at the same downtown apartment complex, Victoria Plaza, which caters to individuals with disabilities and the elderly. The first victim, a 59-year-old man named Nick Martinez, was found deceased on Tuesday due to what officials are stating as a sharp force injury, as reported by KENS 5. In a separate, yet just as unsettling case, 52-year-old Donnell Sterling was discovered in his apartment on Friday after reports of a foul smell. Sterling, a father of four and a local cook, was identified by his family at the scene.
According to an interview obtained by KSAT, Bridgett Sterling laments, "We're gonna find out who did it because that's just not right. That's just not fair. It's not right. It's just not right." Reports indicate the two deaths have rattled the complex's community, with residents expressing fear for their safety as darkness falls. Bonita Alvarado, a local resident, voiced her distress, "It's supposed to be opportunity," expressing that the series of tragic discoveries has eroded the sense of security the housing was meant to provide.
While the investigation into both incidents continues, KSAT shared details on the enhanced security measures from Opportunity Home San Antonio, the local public housing authority. These measures include electronic access controls, security patrols synchronized with crime statistics, and coordination with property management to implement responses to police service calls. The safety statement by the housing authority also mentioned their reliance on the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) to ensure community safety and the sharing of any crime-related security footage with law enforcement.
The circumstances behind the deaths and any potential link between them are part of active SAPD's investigation. Sterling's cause of death has yet to be confirmed, although it is being investigated as homicide. Similarly, Martinez's death was ruled a homicide after the preliminary report suggested the involvement of foul play. The community at Victoria Plaza, unsettled by the proximity and mysterious nature of these deaths, is calling for increased vigilance and answers. The search for justice and clarity continues as both the residents and the relatives of the deceased grapple with the unfolding situation.
