San Antonio's business and philanthropic community is reeling from the tragic death of Edward "Ron" Acosta, the founder of the popular Las Palapas restaurant chain, following a family-related incident. As reported by KSAT-12, Acosta, 78, was allegedly stabbed by a relative, David Ruiz, at his North Side home on Tuesday morning. According to authorities, the housekeeper made a distressing call around 11 a.m., unable to "control the bleeding" after finding Acosta in his garage.
Intensifying the family's ordeal, Ruiz, 39, and identified as Acosta's nephew, had been extended an invitation to stay at the home, described by Acosta's son who also provided police with a description of Ruiz's vehicle. In a statement obtained by KSAT-12, Kimble County deputies later detained Ruiz a few hours after the incident, with authorities charging him formally with murder.
The assassination took an even more distressing turn due to the familial connections. According to arrest records detailed by KENS 5, Ruiz hailed from Whittier, California and was reportedly trying to flee Texas when he was arrested on a Kimble County highway. No motive has been confirmed, though San Antonio Police Chief William McManus mentioned an argument escalating in the home before the fatal stabbing occurred.
Leaving a legacy behind, Ron Acosta is remembered for his contributions to the community. Jimmy Robles, a pastor at Last Chance Ministries, recounted Acosta’s charitable nature, as reported by KENS 5. "He is very very giving, loves to see people smile," Robles said, stressing on how San Antonio would miss him. Acosta's restaurants, beginning in 1981, have grown to over 20 locations, and his generosity extended beyond his business as he supported various events at Robles’s church. The community, urged by Robles, is called to keep Acosta's family and the Las Palapas family in their prayers during this trying time.
