Family of South Austin homicide victim seeks justice

The small memorial built outside Benito Luna Vargas’ home has grown. Over the past six days people have brought flowers, lit candles and prayed.

On March 23rd, police said they received multiple calls about a disturbance at Vargas' home on Southport Drive. When police arrived, they found Vargas unconscious and his brother badly beaten. The two were sent to the hospital where Vargas later died from his injuries.

Police identified and arrested Jessica Romero in connection to Vargas' homicide.

In an arrest affidavit, a witness said two women and a man attacked Vargas and his brother. The witness told police a woman asked for “Bebe” and said, “Y’all sent Bebe to attack me.” Investigators reported the suspects punched and stabbed Vargas.

Romero has been charged with aggravated robbery. Police said they have not made any additional arrests. Vargas' family and friends held a benefit plate sale Friday to raise money for his funeral expenses. Maria Saucedo, a long-time friend said the family is saving up money to send Vargas to Mexico where he will be laid to rest. In the meantime, Vargas’ loved ones said they will not rest until the people responsible for his death are behind bars.

A GoFundMe page has been started to help the family with funeral expenses.

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