On Sunday, April 27, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred at 2724 Philomena Street, reported at 10:16 p.m. to the Austin 9-1-1 center. When officers from the Austin Police Department arrived at the scene, they found Samantha Fernandez, a Hispanic female born on August 5, 2002, unresponsive with a gunshot wound. She was declared deceased at 10:42 p.m.
The investigation revealed key details. A pickup truck had entered the parking lot, and Fernandez reportedly approached it. According to the investigation, Gonzalo Mendoza-Gonzalez, a 22-year-old Hispanic male, who was in the vehicle, is believed to have shot Fernandez before fleeing the scene in the truck. The vehicle broke down in Kerrville, Texas, which led to Mendoza-Gonzalez’s arrest.
Detectives are charging Mendoza-Gonzalez with first-degree murder for the death of Samantha Fernandez. The Austin Police Department has confirmed that this case marks the 21st homicide in Austin for the year 2025.
The investigation remains active, with no further details available at this time. Authorities are urging anyone with information to reach out. The public can contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS or submit tips anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program online at austincrimestoppers.org or by calling 512-472-8477.
