Assistant Chief of Police Ricardo DeAlejandro, a 36-year-old Hispanic male, was tragically killed on October 28, 1982, while working an undercover narcotics operation at a bar in Robstown, Texas. DeAlejandro, who had served with the Mathis Police Department for six years and was a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War, was shot by one of three men who entered the bar.
These men were unrelated to the narcotics investigation that DeAlejandro was conducting.
The assailant was convicted of murder and carrying a weapon on premises licensed to sell alcoholic beverages. He was sentenced to 14 years in prison. DeAlejandro's death was a significant loss to the community and his family, as he was survived by his wife and children. His dedication to law enforcement and his ultimate sacrifice are remembered and honored by his colleagues and the community he served.
