A deadly RV fire along a Hondo highway has left a 70-year-old man dead and a 32-year-old local man facing murder and arson charges, authorities say. The blaze was reported on April 30, and by the time emergency crews knocked down the flames, they discovered a body inside the burned recreational vehicle. The suspect was detained at the scene and later formally charged, and investigators are still working to piece together what led up to the fire.
The fire broke out April 30 in the 200 block of State Highway 173 South in Hondo, about 40 miles west of San Antonio. Deputies found Jose Romeo Ybarra, 70, inside the RV. Hondo police identified Manuel Sanchez, 32, as a suspect, and deputies detained and later arrested him, according to the San Antonio Express-News.
Charges, Booking and Bail
Authorities say Sanchez did not head straight to jail on the most serious counts. The Medina County Sheriff’s Office reported that he was initially booked on harassment of a public servant, interference with public duties and obstruction or retaliation. A judge initially set bail at $52,500. After investigators pursued additional charges, Sanchez was also charged with murder and arson causing bodily injury or death, and a judge ultimately set his total bail at $1 million, according to KSAT.
Investigation Status and Unknown Motive
So far, officials are keeping tight-lipped about the backstory. Investigators have not said whether Ybarra and Sanchez knew each other, and they have not released any possible motive. "The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed," Sheriff Randy Brown said, according to the San Antonio Express-News.
What’s Next
Prosecutors are now reviewing the evidence while investigators continue running down leads. Sanchez remains booked in the Medina County Jail, according to local reporting. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Medina County Sheriff’s Office or the Hondo Police Department, according to KTSA.
