JASPER COUNTY/SAN ANTONIO — Nearly two years after a beloved Jasper teacher and coach was struck by a single bullet while sitting with friends at a crowded San Antonio rooftop bar, the investigation remains at a standstill—and the person responsible has never been identified.
Ayden Rose Burt, 28, was attending the Texas High School Coaches Association Conference when she was shot just after midnight on July 23, 2024, while sitting on a lounge chair on the second-floor patio of Smoke Skybar on Crockett Street.
Investigators believe the fatal bullet may have originated from the direction of Interstate 37, but despite an extensive homicide investigation, no arrests have been made and no suspect has been identified.
A Night of Celebration Turned Into Tragedy
Burt, a Jasper Middle School English teacher and coach, had spent the day at the coaching conference before meeting fellow educators at the popular downtown bar.
According to witness statements contained in the original San Antonio Police incident report, no one saw a gunman.
Instead, everyone reported hearing only a single “loud bang.”
Moments later, friends noticed Burt had suddenly slumped over in her chair.
Only then did they realize she had been shot.
Witnesses immediately attempted lifesaving measures while security personnel rushed to help carry her downstairs so emergency responders could reach her.
Despite those efforts, Burt was pronounced dead at 12:47 a.m. at San Antonio Army Medical Center.
Police Found No Weapon, No Bullet Holes, No Immediate Clues
The responding officer reported finding a chaotic scene packed with bystanders as officers worked to secure the crowded rooftop patio.
Police searched the area for shell casings, firearms and bullet damage but found nothing beyond a blood-covered outdoor sofa where Burt had been sitting.
Witnesses consistently told investigators there had been no disturbance, no confrontation and no warning before the shot rang out.
Everyone interviewed described hearing only a loud noise before realizing Burt had been critically wounded.
The report concluded with a chilling statement:
“At the time of this report there is no suspect information.”
Investigation Has Gone Quiet
The San Antonio Police detective now leading the homicide investigation recently said there is no new information she is prepared to release publicly.
Investigators continue to believe someone may have information that could solve the case.
Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest, but authorities say they have received no viable tips.
The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office has also declined to release Burt’s autopsy report because the homicide investigation remains active.
Jasper Continues to Honor Her Legacy
While her killer remains free, Burt’s impact continues to be felt in her hometown.
Earlier this month, Jasper ISD dedicated its new weight room in honor of Ayden Burt and her father, David Burt, a longtime educator who died of cancer in 2025.
The Burt family has deep roots in Jasper education, and the dedication served as another reminder of the young teacher whose life was cut tragically short.
Police Still Need Your Help
Nearly two years later, investigators are urging anyone with information—no matter how insignificant it may seem—to contact the San Antonio Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
For Burt’s family, friends and former students, one question still remains unanswered:
Who fired the shot that killed Ayden Rose Burt?