A year after Edward Espino was killed in a road rage incident, his family is still pushing for answers and urging drivers to stay calm behind the wheel.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — One year after a Corpus Christi man was killed in a road rage shooting in Austin, his family continues to search for answers as the case remains unsolved.
Austin police say there have been no new developments in the investigation into the death of Edward Espino, who was 47 years-old when he was shot during a road rage incident. His vehicle later stalled on a highway, where it was struck by another car, according to his family.
“At this time, there are no new updates in the case. The investigation remains active, and detectives continue to review evidence and follow up on leads,” Austin PD told 3NEWS in a statement.
Espino, known as “Eddie” to his loved ones, was well-known in Corpus Christi’s media and theater communities. His diverse career took him to cities like Austin and New York, and included military service and off-Broadway performances.
Inside every corner of his parents’ home, his memory is preserved through photos, altars and keepsakes. His parents, Irma and Ed Espino, and his sister, Jessica Munoz, say they remain determined to keep his case moving forward.
“I refuse to let my brother’s case be a cold case,” Munoz said.
Family members described Espino as a positive presence who could light up any room.
“When a person walks into the room and the room could be dim, and they are just such a happy positive person that they just brighten things up. That’s who Eddie was,” Munoz said.
His father said the loss has left a lasting void.
“Someday, you know, that we all can be a family again of five, you know, we’re four now… I miss being the five,” Ed Espino said.
The family said Espino was helping someone get home safely on the night he was killed, a detail they say reflects his character.
“His last thing, his will was to help someone, you know, and that’s why we’re here, we’re asking for the public to help us. Somebody knows something,” Irma Espino said.
A year later, the family is still hoping someone will come forward with information.
“I just need to find the people that did see something. Clicking their head. ‘Oh, you know what? I remember seeing two cars and something weird happening,’” Munoz said.
Austin Police said they remain committed to the case.
“Our thoughts remain with Mr. Espino’s family and loved ones as they continue to navigate this loss. We remain committed to seeking answers and justice on their behalf,” the department said.
The family is also urging drivers to remain calm, patient and empathetic on the road.
“You don’t know if the person in front of you was lost in thought because they just lost a loved one that week. You don’t know if they just are having financial problems at a light and they’re thinking of how they’re gonna feed their kids that night,” Munoz said.
They hope sharing Espino’s story will prevent other tragedies.
“It’s so sad because there’s no value of life anymore and now my brother’s not here, you know, so I don’t want this to happen anymore,” Munoz said.
Police advise drivers involved in road rage incidents not to engage, not to stop, and not to go home, and to call 911 if they feel threatened.
Austin PD is asking anyone with any information about the case, no matter how small the detail, to contact their Crime Stoppers line at 512-472-8477.