Karina Lee Martinez, an 18-year-old from San Benito, Texas, died on July 29, 2022, after being struck by a gunshot while riding in a vehicle. She was born August 13, 2003, to Corina Lee Galvan and Miguel A. Martinez and is survived by her parents, siblings, and extended family. Karina was taken to Harlingen Medical Center where she later died.

According to the Cameron County Sheriff’s Department, a juvenile in the vehicle accidentally discharged a handgun that was in his lap; the bullet struck Karina in the back. Investigators say the juvenile tossed the gun out of the vehicle after the shooting. The juvenile was detained and charged with one count of manslaughter and one count of tampering with evidence and is in custody at the Darrell B. Hester Juvenile Detention Center in San Benito. The investigation remains ongoing.

Karina’s family and friends remember her as a kind and loving person. Does anyone have information about the incident or knew Karina and can share details that might help the investigation?