Homicide of Respected Texas Public Servant Raises Urgent Questions in the Rio Grande Valley

By Michael Phillips | TXBayNews

McALLEN, Texas — The homicide of Eddy Betancourt, a prominent Rio Grande Valley businessman and public servant, has sent shockwaves through South Texas, raising urgent questions about public safety, transparency, and the integrity of institutions in a region long shadowed by corruption scandals.

Betancourt, 61, was found dead from apparent gunshot wounds inside his business office at 805 N. Ware Road in western McAllen on December 27. Police have described the killing as a targeted and “isolated” incident, but nearly three days later, authorities have not identified a suspect, disclosed a motive, or announced any arrests.

A Respected Figure in Business and Public Service

Eddy Betancourt was widely regarded as a pillar of the Rio Grande Valley’s business and civic community. He owned and operated multiple companies, including R&B Remodeling Co. and R&B General Construction Co., which specialized in industrial and refrigerated warehouse projects across South Texas. He also served as president and co-owner of National Tire and Wheel LLC and worked as an agent for E2H Investments LLC in McAllen.

Beyond the private sector, Betancourt held influential public roles. He served as vice chair of the Hidalgo County Appraisal District Board of Directors and was appointed—and reappointed in 2023—by Greg Abbott to the Texas Facilities Commission, where his term was set to run through 2029. He was also an active member of the McAllen Board of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors.

Local leaders spoke glowingly of his character. Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez called Betancourt a man of “high integrity” and a tireless advocate for the region. McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos said the city was “shocked” by the killing and expressed hope that justice would be swift.

What We Know About the Shooting

According to the McAllen Police Department, officers were dispatched around 3:51 p.m. on December 27 after a 911 caller reported a person on the floor, possibly shot, and not breathing. Betancourt was pronounced dead at the scene by a justice of the peace.

Police Chief Victor Rodriguez confirmed the case is being investigated as a homicide and said the incident appears isolated, with no ongoing threat to the community. Investigators are working with local, state, and federal agencies and continue to request tips from the public.

As of December 29, there have been no official updates. No obituary or funeral arrangements have been announced, which is not unusual in the immediate aftermath of a violent crime.

Rumors, Speculation, and the Need for Caution

In the absence of official details, speculation has begun circulating on social media—particularly on X—suggesting the killing may be connected to alleged corruption in Hidalgo County or disputes involving construction permits and local officials. These claims cite anonymous sources and name individuals without evidence.

There is no corroboration of these rumors from law enforcement, federal agencies, or credible news organizations. Responsible reporting requires separating documented facts from conjecture, especially in a region where high-profile crimes often attract conspiracy theories.

A Region With a Troubled Past

Still, the backdrop matters. Hidalgo County has a well-documented history of public corruption cases spanning decades, including bribery, kickbacks, and drug-related misconduct involving elected officials and law enforcement. Federal task forces and prosecutions have led to dozens of convictions, yet scandals continue to emerge.

For concerned citizens, this history underscores why transparency and accountability are essential—particularly when a public official with deep ties to government and industry is killed under unexplained circumstances.

Questions That Deserve Answers

Authorities are right to caution against premature conclusions. But the public also has a right to expect a thorough investigation and clear communication. Was Betancourt targeted because of a business dispute, a personal matter, or something tied to his public roles? Were surveillance systems reviewed? Are investigators following all plausible leads?

These questions are not accusations—they are part of civic oversight.

Call for Information

Anyone with information about the homicide of Eddy Betancourt is urged to contact the McAllen Police Department at (956) 681-2000 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at (956) 687-8477.

This remains a developing story. TXBayNews will continue to monitor official updates and report verified facts as they emerge, keeping speculation in check while demanding the transparency South Texans deserve.