SAN ANTONIO (TCN) — A 41-year-old man is behind bars after allegedly opening fire on a family’s van during a road rage incident, leaving a 10-year-old girl critically injured.
According to the San Antonio Police Department, Bryan Arceo was arrested on January 30 and charged with three counts of aggravated assault and one count of endangering a child.
A Traffic Dispute Turns Violent
The incident began when Arceo allegedly backed out of a driveway and cut off a van carrying Jason Gates, his wife, and their 10-year-old daughter, Alisa Gates, according to an arrest affidavit reported by KSAT. Gates’ wife, who was driving, honked in response.
Arceo, who was reportedly driving his ex-wife and their 11-year-old daughter, allegedly brake-checked the family, then pulled up next to them and pointed a gun at the van’s driver. That’s when the family heard a loud pop. Jason Gates said he could smell gunpowder, and young Alisa, sitting in the back seat, said, “I’ve been shot.”
Chasing the Shooter for a Clue
At first, the family rushed to take Alisa to the hospital, but quickly decided to follow Arceo’s vehicle for several blocks to get his license plate and a description. According to reports, Arceo eventually pulled over and stepped out holding the gun, prompting the family to drive around him and call for help.
Police and EMS Respond Quickly
Officers met the family in a parking lot and began life-saving measures before EMS transported Alisa to a nearby hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. Thankfully, according to KTSA, as of February 2, she is recovering and has begun walking again.
Surveillance and Witnesses Confirm Suspect
Surveillance video later showed Arceo dropping off his child at school and his wife at work following the shooting. According to the affidavit, Arceo’s wife also confirmed that she saw him point the handgun at the van before firing. At the scene, investigators recovered a live 9mm round, per KSAT.
Police launched a multi-unit operation to track down Arceo, leading to his arrest shortly after.
Facing Serious Charges and High Bail
Arceo is currently in custody on a total bail amount of $375,000, according to KENS.
This deeply troubling incident has left a young girl recovering from a gunshot wound and a family shaken, but thankful for her survival. Authorities are reminding drivers to remain calm on the road, as situations can escalate quickly and dangerously.
