In a shocking and tragic incident, a 39-year-old man from California traveled to San Antonio, Texas, and murdered his uncle, Edward “Ronnie” Acosta, who was the founder of the popular Las Palapas restaurant chain.
The attack, which occurred at Acosta’s upscale home, has left the community reeling as police work to understand the motive behind this brutal crime.
The Murder of Edward “Ronnie” Acosta
According to police, David Ruiz, the nephew of Acosta, stabbed the 78-year-old restaurant mogul to death early Tuesday morning. Acosta, known for founding Las Palapas in 1981, had invited his nephew to stay with him at his home in San Antonio.
Ruiz, who had reportedly been struggling with a mental health crisis and possible methamphetamine use, is now facing a murder charge for the attack.
Acosta, who had sold the majority stake in Las Palapas in 2020, was a beloved figure in the San Antonio community, known not just for his business success but for his generous spirit and deep faith.
The Las Palapas chain, which started as a small 60-seat restaurant in San Antonio, grew into a widely recognized brand across Texas.
The Events Leading to the Stabbing
The altercation that led to the stabbing took place in the early hours of Tuesday morning. According to a witness, Acosta’s housekeeper, who saw the aftermath of the attack, reported “blood all around him” and said that Ruiz had stabbed Acosta multiple times.
The police affidavit reveals that Acosta “bled out while lying in the garage” after the attack. Ruiz fled the scene following the murder.
Later, San Antonio police tracked Ruiz down after receiving information that he was driving west on Interstate 10. A traffic stop was conducted in Junction, Texas, about 100 miles from San Antonio, and Ruiz was arrested without incident. He is currently awaiting extradition back to Bexar County to face charges.
The Ruiz Family’s Reaction
David Ruiz’s father, James Ruiz, who is married to Acosta’s sister, expressed his shock and devastation after learning of the murder. In an interview with the San Antonio Express-News, James Ruiz revealed that he had feared for his son’s safety due to a mental health crisis but never imagined he would harm someone else—especially not his uncle.
He also mentioned that Ruiz had been using methamphetamine at the time of the murder, which may have contributed to his erratic behavior.
When James Ruiz learned of the killing, he texted his son, urging him to turn himself into the authorities. His son reportedly dismissed his father’s plea, calling him “crazy.” Despite this, James Ruiz’s message reflected his despair: “David, you killed Ronnie.”
The Legacy of Edward “Ronnie” Acosta
Edward “Ronnie” Acosta’s death has left a significant impact on both his family and the broader San Antonio community. Acosta was known not only for his success in the restaurant industry but also for his dedication to serving others through food, friendship, and faith.
In a tribute on the Las Palapas Facebook page, the restaurant chain called Acosta a “man of deep faith” and praised his work ethic and generosity. He is remembered as a community leader who touched many lives through his business and personal values.
The murder of Edward “Ronnie” Acosta is a deeply tragic event that has shaken both his family and the community. While the details surrounding the attack are still unfolding, it is clear that mental health issues and substance abuse played a role in the incident.
As the case progresses, many will remember Acosta for his kindness, generosity, and the lasting impact he had on his community through the Las Palapas restaurant chain.
