Dallas, TX – A man is being sought in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred during a home invasion. The victim, Juvenal Antero, was fatally shot in front of his wife and young son.
Antero attempted to protect his family during the incident, which took place at his apartment on December 30. Elizabel Cardenas, Antero’s wife, described her husband’s last moments after he was wounded.
The Dallas Police Department identified Arnold Sustaita Zapata, 26, as a suspect and are also searching for two additional assailants. The shooting has prompted concerns due to its brazen nature occurring in the victim’s own home.
According to police reports, the incident began around 2:40 p.m. when officers were dispatched to the location in Pleasant Grove. Upon arrival, they discovered Antero suffering from multiple gunshot wounds after he confronted three men entering his residence.
Cardenas recounted the chilling moments when she answered the door to find the men asking for help. They claimed they needed a plunger, which allowed them to force entry into the home.
One of the intruders pointed a gun at their four-year-old son, which prompted Antero to step in front to shield his child. Following the confrontation, Antero managed to return fire but ultimately succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
Cardenas, currently pregnant with their second child, shared the emotional toll the incident has taken on their family. She expressed her heartbreak over welcoming a new baby without a father present.
This tragic event underscores the critical need for community assistance as police continue their investigation. Anyone with information regarding Zapata’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 214-373-TIPS.
