18-Year-Old Alexander Villegas Dies After Accidental Shooting in Royse City

ROYSE CITY, Texas — A tragic accident claimed the life of 18-year-old Alexander Villegas, a student at Royse City High School, who died after accidentally shooting himself. According to the Royse City Police Department (RCPD), the incident occurred late Friday night at a residence in the 6100 block of County Road 2597. The fatal mishap has left the community in shock as authorities continue to investigate.

Police responded to a 911 call reporting that Villegas had accidentally shot himself in the abdomen. Officers arrived on the scene around 11 p.m. and spoke to Villegas, who was conscious and able to explain that he had been handling a handgun when it discharged unexpectedly. RCPD officers immediately began administering first aid to stabilize Villegas while waiting for paramedics and fire personnel to arrive.

Villegas was quickly transported via ambulance to a nearby hospital, but despite the efforts of medical professionals, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. The sudden and untimely death of Alexander Villegas has sent ripples of sorrow through the Royse City community, where he was known as a bright and promising young man with a future ahead of him.

The Royse City Police Department has launched an investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the accidental discharge. While initial reports indicate that the shooting was unintentional, authorities are working to thoroughly review the evidence to rule out any other possible factors. No foul play is suspected at this time, but the investigation remains ongoing.

The loss of Alexander Villegas has been deeply felt by his family, friends, and the Royse City High School community. Tributes and condolences have poured in, with many expressing disbelief and heartbreak over the sudden loss. The school has offered support and counseling services to students and staff as they navigate this difficult time, and a vigil is being planned to honor Villegas’s memory.

Gun safety advocates continue to stress the importance of proper handling and storage of firearms, especially in homes with young adults and teenagers. The tragic death of Alexander Villegas serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with firearms and the critical need for awareness and education to prevent such accidents from occurring in the future.

As the investigation proceeds, the Royse City Police Department urges anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. The community remains united in grief and support, standing by the Villegas family during this unimaginable time of loss. Further updates will be provided as more details become available.