Gianni Jose Ruiz, 17, was shot and killed in the parking area of the Elsa Housing Authority in Elsa, Texas, on November 15, 2022. The incident was reported to police at 7:58 p.m. Gianni, born September 27, 2005, in McAllen, Texas, was the son of Eric Ruiz and Venessa Marie Cantu and is survived by his parents, siblings, and grandparents.

Investigators say Gianni had been involved in arranging drug deals and then robbing the dealers of drugs or cash. Two teenagers, ages 15 and 16, were arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the robbery that led to his shooting. Police recovered two different types of shell casings at the scene, suggesting multiple firearms were used. The case remains under investigation and authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.

If anyone knew Gianni or has information about the events that night, please share what you know with the Elsa Police Department.