Candles burned brightly Monday morning as family and friends set up a memorial in the spot where 29-year-old Franklin Espinales was gunned down early Sunday.
Monday afternoon Austin homicide detectives were back at the crime scene -- asking anyone with information to come forward.
“We're asking for the public to help us in trying to identify a suspect in this case,” said Sgt. Scott Ehlert.
Espinales was shot and killed just before 1:30 Sunday morning at the Whisper Woods Apartments on East Wonsley Drive in North Austin, as a birthday celebration was winding down. Police say he got in a fight inside the courtyard; that fight led to the shooting.
“I know there were some words exchanged, but we are not releasing that information,” said Ehlert.
The gunman remains at large. Police say he is black, between 30 and 40-years-old. He's about 5'5" to 5'7" with a heavy build, weighing 200 to 220 pounds. He has gold front teeth. Investigators consider him armed and dangerous.
Hugo Mendez lives nearby and worries about his family's safety.
“This is kind of a dangerous situation here,” he said.
Mendez has lived in the neighborhood for seven years and says the crime is getting worse.
He wants to see more police patrols and calls the fatal shooting a senseless tragedy that could have been avoided.
“I have that feeling if they pay more attention that guy might be still alive,” said Mendez.
Anyone with information about the deadly shooting should call CrimeStoppers at 472-TIPS.
