Teen working at AutoZone shot and killed

SPRING, TX – The quiet morning in Spring was shattered by the sound of gunfire, leaving a community in mourning and a family grappling with an unimaginable loss. Carlos Perez, a 19-year-old with a bright future ahead, was killed while working at an AutoZone store on Saturday. His sudden death has left family members heartbroken as they prepared to gather for the holiday season.

Perez’s family remembers him as a generous soul, always ready to help others, no matter the circumstances. Known for his warm heart, he welcomed people into his life without hesitation. “He was the kind of person who would lend a hand to anyone in need,” a family member shared, describing Perez’s religious faith and his welcoming nature.

The young man had aspirations of becoming an engineer in the automotive industry, driven by his passion for sports and cars. Tragically, his dreams were cut short, leaving behind unfulfilled goals and a grieving family. Just two weeks before his death, Perez had told his grandmother about his plans to propose to his girlfriend, Katie, expressing his desire for a long-lasting love like that of his grandparents.

The suspect, 19-year-old William Gabriel Aguilar, has been arrested and charged with Perez’s murder. Authorities have yet to disclose a motive for the shooting, leaving the community searching for answers. Aguilar is currently held at Montgomery County Jail on a $750,000 bond.

Outside the AutoZone, a makeshift memorial is growing, a poignant reminder of Perez’s impact on those who knew him. Flowers, candles, and messages of love and remembrance adorn the site, symbolizing the void left by his untimely death. “No matter what, he’ll always be with us in our hearts and minds,” a family member expressed.

The community is set to come together for a vigil in Perez’s honor, scheduled for 7:30 p.m., providing a space for friends, family, and community members to pay their respects and support one another in this time of grief.

As the investigation continues, the Perez family clings to memories of their beloved son, brother, and friend, vowing to keep his spirit alive. They remember Carlos Perez not just for his kindness and ambition but for the love he shared with everyone around him.