The family of Miguel Mondragón Jaimes, a 49-year-old man who was tragically killed by five Cubans during a robbery in Austin, Texas, is urging the community to ensure that justice is served and that the accused do not gain their freedom. In a series of posts on Facebook, Jaimes Jasmin, the victim's daughter, expressed her outrage over the county prosecutor's recent decision to drop one of the charges against Alejandro Hurtado-Reyes, identified as the leader of the FBM criminal organization, who is currently out on bail. "We ask for caution, as this individual has been described as dangerous," she wrote.
Recounting the harrowing details, the young woman remembered how her father was ambushed in the early hours of August 3rd by five hooded and armed individuals who blocked the vehicle he was traveling in. After opening fire on the vehicle, Mondragón attempted to flee on foot, but was fatally shot by Héctor Yohany Achang Batlle. Following the shooting, another attacker stole his belongings, including money, a phone, and a watch.
The suspects, all identified as Cuban nationals, include Yanaris Reyes (29), Alejandro Hurtado-Reyes (22), Antonio González (17), Yurisander Góngora Rojas (19), and Héctor Yohany Achang Batlle (19). They were apprehended in the days following the crime and face charges of capital murder. However, the family fears that low bail amounts and dropped charges could result in their release.
"We demand justice. Authorities are granting these individuals extremely low bail, which doesn't ensure they will face the consequences they deserve. We cannot allow them to roam free as if nothing happened," the daughter implored. "We've heard of many others who have suffered at the hands of these individuals. This isn't just about justice for my father, but for every person who hasn't been heard yet," Jasmin stated in another message, urging the community to contact the prosecutor's office to demand that charges remain in place.
The family also warns that the arrested individuals confessed to committing additional robberies in North Austin and Pflugerville, primarily targeting Hispanics who may be reluctant to report crimes due to fear of questioning related to their immigration status.
"We ask the community for help. If you've been a victim of theft, especially in these areas, please report it. This will help ensure these individuals have a criminal record and are not treated as if this were their 'first' offense," Mondragón's daughter emphasized.
Amidst their grief, relatives have organized fundraising activities to support the deceased's children. Lorena Jaimes, the victim's niece, has launched a solidarity raffle to raise funds for the family, still grappling with expenses related to the crime and funeral.
The case has sparked significant outrage in Austin and among Hispanic communities across Texas, where reports of violent actions by organized gangs continue to rise. Local authorities reiterated their call for anyone victimized by similar robberies to contact the Austin Police Department at 512-974-TIPS or Crime Stoppers at 512-472-8477 to strengthen the legal case against the accused.
"Every small gesture helps. Share this story. Report. Raise your voice," wrote Jaimes Jasmin in another post, convinced that only with public pressure will her father's death not go unpunished.
Community Involvement and Justice in Texas Murder Case
What charges are the suspects facing in the murder of Miguel Mondragón Jaimes?
The suspects are facing charges of capital murder in connection to the killing of Miguel Mondragón Jaimes.
Why is the family concerned about the suspects' potential release?
The family fears that the low bail amounts and dropped charges might allow the suspects to be released and not face the consequences they deserve.
How can the community assist the family of Miguel Mondragón Jaimes?
The community can help by reporting any similar crimes, participating in fundraising activities, and contacting authorities to ensure justice is served.