Two men were killed in a late‑night shooting in Big Spring, Texas, and a 22‑year‑old suspect has been arrested and charged with capital murder. On Friday, May 22, 2026, at approximately 11:05 p.m., officers with the Big Spring Police Department and deputies from the Howard County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunfire in the 1600 block of Oriole Street.
When they arrived, they found two men lying in the front yard of a residence with gunshot wounds. The victims were identified as 44‑year‑old Willis J. Duval and 23‑year‑old Marcus D. Pena. Emergency responders attempted lifesaving measures, but both men were pronounced dead at the scene by Justice of the Peace Averette.
Investigators confirmed that both victims had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. The Big Spring Police Department Criminal Investigations Division, identification personnel, and the Texas Rangers were called to assist in the homicide investigation. Detectives immediately began interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and pursuing leads connected to the shooting.
Based on the evidence gathered, authorities determined that probable cause existed to charge Ruben A. Gonzales, 22, with capital murder. Detectives and Texas Rangers obtained a warrant, and Gonzales was arrested the following morning, Saturday, May 23, 2026, at approximately 9:30 a.m. in the 1600 block of Canary Street. He was booked into the Howard County Detention Center on the capital murder charge.
Court records indicate Gonzales is being held on a bond of $2,007,500. In addition to the capital murder charge, he was also arrested on an unrelated warrant for unlawful carrying of a weapon. Authorities have not released further details about the motive or circumstances leading up to the shooting, and the investigation remains ongoing.
The double homicide has shaken the Big Spring community. Residents have expressed concern about violence in the area, while police continue to urge anyone with information to contact the Big Spring Police Department. Officials emphasized that the investigation is active and more details will be released as they become available.
Family and friends of Duval and Pena are mourning the sudden loss of their loved ones. Vigils are expected to be organized in Big Spring as the community seeks justice and closure in the wake of the tragedy. Detectives and Texas Rangers continue to gather evidence to build the case against Gonzales, who faces the possibility of life imprisonment or the death penalty if convicted of capital murder under Texas law.
