Christopher Zarate was a 31-year-old Black / African American man from Abilene, Texas, remembered by his family as happy, respectful, and deeply devoted to his children. A father of four, Christopher worked in construction and spent his free time drawing, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors. His family noted that above all else, he loved his kids and his family, leaving a profound void in their lives.
On New Year's Eve, December 31, 2022, Christopher’s life was tragically taken. His body was discovered by a motorist along a roadway in Jones County, near County Road 310. The Jones County Sheriff's Department was called to the scene, and an investigation determined that Christopher was the victim of a homicide. He had died from gunshot wounds.
The Jones County Sheriff’s Department and the Texas Rangers began a joint investigation into the killing.
A few days after Christopher was found, his sister, Meagan Zarate, was driving his car when another vehicle opened fire on her. While she was not harmed, the incident led authorities to a person of interest.
Following the shooting involving Meagan, police arrested Juan Carlos Rodriguez and charged him in connection with that attack. Investigators also named him as a suspect in Christopher’s murder. Subsequently, a Jones County grand jury handed down an indictment, formally charging Juan Carlos Rodriguez with the murder of Christopher Zarate.
With an indictment secured, the case has moved into the litigation phase and is proceeding through the court system. Christopher’s family, who has been seeking answers and justice since his death, continues to honor his memory while awaiting the outcome of the legal proceedings.
