SAN ANTONIO, TX — The San Antonio community is mourning the loss of Edward “Ron” Acosta, the 78-year-old founder of the beloved Las Palapas Tex-Mex restaurant chain, after he was brutally murdered in his home on Tuesday morning, July 1, 2025.
Acosta, a well-known and respected entrepreneur, was found stabbed to death in the garage of his home in a gated community on the city’s north side. According to authorities, the suspect is his 39-year-old nephew, David Ruiz, who has since been arrested and charged with murder.
Police say the attack followed a heated argument between the two men. Acosta’s housekeeper, who was present at the time, told investigators she heard the victim pleading, “No, David! No, David!” before discovering him bloodied and unresponsive. She immediately called 911.
By the time law enforcement arrived, Ruiz had fled the scene. A manhunt led to his arrest hours later in Kimble County, northwest of San Antonio.
The incident has left family members stunned and devastated. Ruiz’s father, James Ruiz, told the San Antonio Express-News that his son had been struggling with severe mental health issues in the days leading up to the killing. He said he feared for his son’s safety — but never imagined he would harm someone else.
“I thought I was going to lose him to suicide,” James said. “I never thought he’d hurt someone — especially not Ronnie. He just completely snapped.”
James added that he had installed a deadbolt on his bedroom door out of fear and was alarmed when David asked a relative to purchase a gun during his trip to Texas. That request was denied. After learning about the murder, James urged his son via text to turn himself in. David reportedly responded, “Oh, you’re crazy!”
Police say David Ruiz had no prior meaningful relationship with Acosta, and a motive for the killing has not been publicly confirmed. He remains in custody, and his legal proceedings are pending.
Ron Acosta founded Las Palapas in 1981, building it into a well-known chain cherished for its Tex-Mex offerings and community atmosphere. His passion for food, people, and business helped shape a legacy that spans over four decades.
The restaurant group issued a statement following his death, saying in part:
“We are heartbroken by the loss of our founder, mentor, and friend. Ron’s vision created more than a restaurant — he built a family. His kindness, leadership, and spirit will never be forgotten.”
The San Antonio community, along with the Las Palapas family, continues to grieve this unimaginable loss — the death of a man who brought flavor, generosity, and heart to everything he touched.
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