Teen accused in deadly Whataburger shooting was part of makeshift car shows frequented by gangs
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A teenager has been arrested in connection to the death of a girl outside of a Whataburger restaurant.
According to court documents, Gabriel Cantu, 18, also known as "Chop," was seen in surveillance video in the parking lot of a Whataburger restaurant on Airtex with an AK-47 rifle hanging out of a car window. Court documents state Cantu was a part of a makeshift car show that's frequented by gang members.
Investigators said Victoria Cantu was in a red Acura in that parking lot and cut off the car Gabriel Cantu was in. That's when court papers state he fired the rifle at the red Acura. The bullet went through the trunk of the Acura, through the back seat and finally struck and killed Victoria Cantu.
Since the January 4 death, investigators have been following leads on social media and Crime Stoppers. Several tips mentioned "Chop" as a suspect.
Cantu has been previously arrested for discharging a firearm with in the city limits. Police named an AK-47 was used in that crime as well.
Police finally captured Gabriel Cantu on Wednesday in San Jacinto County after he fled into a wooded area. After his capture, he asked detectives, "How did you find me in Shepard?" Court documents also state Cantu told police another person who was involved in the January 4 shooting was arrested 'a couple days ago.'
