According to officials, a prison escapee raided their family property and shot, stabbed, and killed a Texas grandfather and his four grandsons.
On May 12, Gonzalo Lopez broke free from his bonds and escaped from a jail transport bus. Other prisoners are said to have assisted Lopez in his escape by making noise and distracting guards on the bus.
After escaping, Lopez is suspected of attacking Mark Collins’ property near Centerville, Texas. Mark Collins and his four grandsons 18 years old, Waylon Collins; 16 years old, Carson Collins; 11 years old, Hudson Collins; and 11 years old, Bryson Collins were found dead on June 2.
According to the medical examiner’s report released on Thursday, both Mark and Waylon were murdered by gunshot wounds and sharp force injuries. Gunshots and stab wounds killed Carson, Hudson, and Bryson.
Lopez was sentenced to life in prison in 2006 after being convicted of a murder near the Mexican border.
Lopez’s escape sparked one of the most extensive inmate hunts in Texas history. With 40 patrols searching the woods where he escaped, authorities announced a $50,000 reward.
General Cris Love, Texas Inspector, said, ‘Lopez has a complete disregard for human life and will do what it takes to avoid capture’.
According to KHOU 11, investigators discovered DNA at the ranch that linked Lopez to the crime.
Lopez was also caught in possession of a revolver and an AR-15 weapon, as well as the ranch owner’s white Chevrolet pickup truck, which had been taken from Mark’s property.
Lopez was trailed by police in a pickup vehicle until spike traps were able to flatten its tires. Lopez apparently slammed into a fence and opened fire on the chasing officers. During the shootout, he was shot and he died.
The Collins family will be honored at a public funeral on June 11 at Houston’s Champion Baptist Church, which will be streamed live on Facebook and the church’s website.