Suspects accused of targeting teenage victims in planned ambushes across Universal City.
UNIVERSAL CITY, TX – A 17-year-old girl is accused of using online dating platforms to lure teenage boys into planned robberies that left one victim shot four times, according to city officials. The case has led to multiple felony charges and the arrest of a second suspect, her boyfriend, as investigators detail a pattern of attacks targeting young victims.
Alyssa Canul faces two counts of aggravated robbery “and could face an additional charge of tampering with physical evidence,” according to the government of Universal City. Officials say “Canul is suspected to have partnered with her boyfriend, 17-year-old Joseph Anthony Aguilar, who was arrested earlier this week.”
Alleged luring scheme unfolded at park, apartment
According to the city, “[t]he pair recently moved to Universal City and are accused of luring young men on online dating sites then, robbing and assaulting them.” Authorities said in one case “the victim was pistol whipped” and in another, a 15-year-old boy was shot four times and survived.
Investigators said Canul’s role was to “lure young men on online dating sites” before the attacks took place. In one incident, she allegedly invited a teenage boy to meet her at a park bench, where Aguilar then attacked him and stole his money.
In a second case, a 15-year-old traveled to the same park to meet Canul before she allegedly directed him to Aguilar’s nearby apartment. According to an arrest affidavit, as the pair approached the residence, Aguilar made a “loud noise” and revealed himself while loading a firearm.
Victim shot four times, survives after reaching help
Authorities say the teen tried to run, but Aguilar allegedly shot him four times and robbed him. The victim managed to reach a nearby coffee shop, where people inside called 911. He was transported to a hospital and treated for injuries described as non-life-threatening.
Investigators later reported that they overheard Canul speaking with Aguilar by phone, during which she said she got rid of the weapon used in the robberies.
Aguilar faces two aggravated robbery charges. Canul was arrested Friday and booked into the Bexar County Adult Detention Center as the investigation continues.