The city of McAllen, Texas is currently the focal point of a murder investigation after Eddy Betancourt, a prominent businessman and an appointee of Governor Greg Abbott, was found dead over the weekend. According to KSAT, Betancourt, 61, served as the vice-chairman of the Hidalgo County Appraisal District and was president of R&B General Construction Co. as well as National Tire and Wheel, LLC.
McAllen police have identified 60-year-old Reynaldo Mata-Rios as the prime suspect in a fatal shooting. He had not surrendered as of Sunday afternoon. Details about his apprehension are not yet available. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact McAllen Crime Stoppers. The incident occurred on Saturday on North Ware Road, where officers found the victim, Betancourt, unresponsive with a gunshot wound.
According to KSAT, following the tragedy, Betancourt’s name and role were removed from the Texas State Directory, leaving the commissioner position open. Local officials expressed their condolences. Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez said, “On behalf of Hidalgo County, we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and many friends of Eddy Betancourt. Eddy was a tireless advocate for our community,” highlighting the impact of Betancourt’s leadership and generosity.
The late businessman had a significant presence in both business and public service. Texas Gov. Abbott appointed him to the Texas Facilities Commission in 2020 and reappointed him in 2023 for a term ending in 2029. Betancourt was well-known in McAllen, and his loss resonated across the community. The Texas Facilities Commission, as Fox News Digital reported, oversees the construction, maintenance, and leasing of state-owned buildings, one of several positions where Betancourt held influence within the state’s infrastructure.
