The search for a fugitive accused of gunning down three teenagers in a Texas convenience store shifted into high gear Wednesday as federal investigators put a massive price tag on his head.
FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock and Garland Police Chief Jeff Bryan announced a reward of up to $50,000 for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of Abel Elias Acosta.
The case dates back to the evening of December 26, 2021, when a quiet night in Garland turned into a scene of absolute chaos. Garland police officers rushed to a local convenience store following reports of heavy gunfire, only to find three young boys—aged 14, 16, and 17—dead inside. A fourth victim survived the shooting but was rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Acosta, who was just 14 years old when the trigger was pulled, vanished into the night and hasn’t been seen since. While a state warrant for capital murder was issued immediately, the trail has led investigators to believe he crossed the border into Mexico.
Because of this, a federal warrant was issued in the Northern District of Texas charging him with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
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Now 18, Acosta is described as a white Hispanic male born in Garland. Authorities are warning the public that he should be considered armed and dangerous. Despite the years that have passed, local and federal law enforcement are refusing to let the case go cold.
“Today, the FBI is announcing a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Abel Elias Acosta,” Special Agent Rothrock said during the announcement. “We know he has longstanding ties to the Garland area, and we ask anyone with information to contact the FBI. The FBI will continue to work with our partners at the Garland Police Department to bring justice to the victims’ families and the Garland community.”
Chief Jeff Bryan echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that the passage of time has not dulled the pain felt by the victims’ loved ones.
“For the family, friends, and the entire community, this case remains a wound that cannot begin to heal until justice is served,” Bryan said. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing that justice, and we are grateful for the continued partnership of the FBI and all agencies working alongside us. We hope this reward encourages anyone with information about Abel Acosta’s whereabouts to provide that information to law enforcement. We also urge Abel Acosta to find the resolve to do what is right and come forward.”
Anyone with information regarding Acosta’s location is urged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or the Dallas Field Office at 972-559-5000.
Tips can also be submitted online at tips.fbi.gov or through any U.S. Embassy. Officials have stressed that all information can be provided anonymously and confidentiality is guaranteed.
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