EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — It has been nearly a week into the capital murder trial of Gabriel Ramirez, with jurors on Thursday shown a second weapon collected from the red SUV where state prosecutors say one of the two victims was found.
Ramirez is charged with capital murder in the deaths of his aunt, Irma Ramirez, and his girlfriend, Kathia Rosales, during Christmas weekend in 2022.
In court on Thursday, an El Paso Police Department officer approached the jury to show them a box cutter that was found in the trunk of the SUV where Rosales’ body was found. Prosecutors said the box cutter had blood on it and was located in the trunk below a blue bag, along with two written letters.
Paulina Carr reports on Second weapon presented in El Paso double homicide trial of Gabriel Ramirez (Credit: KFOX14)
RECOMMENDED: Double-murder trial continues as jury views photos of second crime scene
Jurors also saw photographs officers took inside the vehicle. One photo showed a binder page filled with what appeared to be family pictures near the car’s foot pedals.
The two handwritten notes found in the SUV were also shown in the courtroom. One note included the words, “I need your help” and “I’m trying to help you.”
RECOMMENDED: Gabriel Ramirez won’t face death penalty; life without parole sought if convicted
The defense team questioned the officers taking the stand about medication administered to Ramirez while in custody. Defense attorneys claimed Ramirez was incoherent during interrogations, even stating he couldn’t walk. A photograph was shown to the jury showing Ramirez being held up by two officers.
RECOMMENDED: Jury hears evidence in El Paso double-homicide trial tied to 2022 Christmas deaths
The second weapon presented to the jury today has not yet been confirmed to have been used in the killings.
The trial is expected to continue into next week. Jurors are scheduled to return Friday at 8:30 am.
Sign up to receive the top interesting stories from in and around our community once daily in your inbox.