Founder of Texas Las Palapas restaurant chain Edward ‘Ron’ Acosta allegedly killed in his mansion by nephew suffering from hallucinations

The founder of the popular Mexican restaurant chain Las Palapas, Edward “Ron” Acosta, tragically lost his life in a horrific incident allegedly carried out by his nephew, David Ruiz. The shocking murder took place in Acosta’s mansion in a gated community in San Antonio, Texas.

Ruiz, who had traveled from California to Texas, was reportedly suffering from paranoid hallucinations and experiencing a severe mental breakdown at the time of the crime. His father, James Ruiz, revealed that his son had been displaying signs of various mental disorders, sleep deprivation, hallucinations, and extreme paranoia. Despite his concerns, James never imagined that his son would harm someone, let alone his own uncle.

Before heading to Texas, James had contacted Aaron Acosta, Edward Acosta’s son, to warn him of his nephew’s deteriorating mental state and the potential danger he posed. However, Ruiz arrived in San Antonio armed with a pistol and in a disturbed state of mind. He initially planned to visit his cousin and brother but ended up at his uncle’s residence.

Upon his arrival, Acosta invited Ruiz to stay at his home instead of going to his son’s house. A family gathering was planned to discuss Ruiz’s situation, but tragedy struck when Acosta was found stabbed multiple times in his home. Despite efforts by a housekeeper to intervene, Acosta succumbed to his injuries before help could arrive.

Ruiz fled the scene but was later apprehended by law enforcement in Kimble County, Texas. He is currently awaiting extradition to face a first-degree murder charge in Bexar County.

Edward Acosta, the founder of Las Palapas, had established the Tex-Mex chain in 1981 and was known for his charitable contributions and strong sense of community. His untimely death has left a void in the San Antonio community, with friends and colleagues mourning the loss of a compassionate and visionary leader.

Las Palapas Restaurant expressed profound sorrow over Acosta’s tragic death, highlighting his impact on the community and the legacy he leaves behind. The company described Acosta as a man of deep faith, generosity, and leadership, whose influence extended beyond the restaurants he built.

The loss of Edward “Ron” Acosta has deeply affected those who knew him, and his memory will continue to live on through the legacy he created in the San Antonio community.