SAN ANTONIO – A tragic incident has shaken the San Antonio community as a man has been accused of fatally stabbing the founder of Las Palapas, Edward “Ron” Acosta. The accused, David Ruiz, is currently awaiting a psychological evaluation as part of the legal proceedings against him.
On June 2, a judge in the 186th District Court ordered that Ruiz undergo a sanity evaluation, which is set to take place on June 18. This step is crucial in determining Ruiz’s mental state at the time of the incident.
The San Antonio Police Department reported that Acosta was found dead on July 1, 2025, at a residence in the Stone Oak area. This location, situated near Blanco Road and outside Loop 1604, has become the center of a high-profile murder investigation.
According to SAPD Chief William McManus, Acosta and Ruiz were involved in an argument that escalated into violence, leading to the stabbing. It’s important to note that Ruiz is Acosta’s nephew, which adds a layer of complexity to this tragic event.
Investigators revealed that Ruiz stabbed Acosta multiple times. According to Ruiz’s arrest warrant, he was on his way to San Antonio and had previously contacted Acosta’s son, who offered him a place to stay. However, Ruiz decided to stay somewhere else that night.
On the day of the stabbing, Acosta reached out to Ruiz, inviting him to stay at his home. Evidence from a family group chat confirmed that Acosta texted the group about Ruiz’s arrival and their plans to meet with other relatives later.
Following the incident, Acosta’s son identified Ruiz as the suspect during a police lineup and provided details about Ruiz’s vehicle, which aided in locating him. Ruiz was subsequently booked into the Bexar County jail with a bond set at $250,000, where he remains as the legal process unfolds.

