One Dead, Two Injured in Odessa Gunfight

The Odessa Police Department is investigating a shooting that occurred on February 16, 2025, at a residence in the 500 block of Bunche. The incident resulted in three people being shot, one of whom died.

At approximately 7:30 p.m., officers responded to the residence and found 33-year-old Rene Mendoza deceased in the front yard. Two others, 26-year-old Sergio Ramos, a resident of the house, and 33-year-old Stephanie Urias, suffered gunshot wounds and were transported to Medical Center Hospital, where they remain in stable condition.

Investigators believe Mendoza arrived at the residence with at least one other person, intending to confront and assault someone at the home. Witnesses stated that Ramos had armed himself before Mendoza arrived. Mendoza allegedly exited his vehicle brandishing a firearm, leading to a brief altercation. Ramos fired several rounds, later telling officers he feared for his life. During the exchange of gunfire, both Ramos and Urias were shot. The individuals who accompanied Mendoza fled the scene.

Authorities secured a warrant and arrested Fernando Madrid Mendoza, who was with Rene Mendoza during the incident. He is currently in custody on two counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. Police are continuing to investigate Ramos and others involved, though no charges have been filed against Ramos at this time. The case will be presented to the Ector County Grand Jury upon completion of the investigation.