1 arrested in connection with beating death, 2 more sought

AUSTIN, Texas (FOX 7 Austin) - The Austin Police Department has made an arrest Monday in Sunday's beating death of Benito Luna Vargas.

Jessica Romero, 37, was arrested by the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force. APD is still looking for two other unnamed suspects. A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the remaining two suspects.

According to a Sunday release from APD, witnesses learned that Romero and two others, one described as a heavyset Hispanic female in her late 20's to 30's and the other a heavy-set Hispanic male in his late 40's to 50's, entered a residence on Southport Drive and began assaulting Vargas and another victim while demanding valuables. 

Vargas, 34, was transported to St. David's South Austin Medical Center after police and EMS responded to numerous calls about a man who had been beaten and left unconscious at approximately 12:29 a.m. Sunday. CPR was performed on scene and despite the efforts of medical staff, Vargas was pronounced dead at 1:01 a.m.

The second victim was also reportedly transported to St. David's where he was treated and released.

Romero is currently charged with aggravated robbery in connection with this and APD said Sunday all three suspects may face capital murder charges.

APD is asking anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers at 512-472-TIPS or text "Tip 103" + a message to CRIMES, use the new Crime Stoppers App, or email APD Homicide at homicide.apd@austintexas.gov. Tips can be submitted anonymously and can also be submitted by downloading APD's mobile app, Austin PD, for free on iPhone and Android.