Texas – Texas authorities are continuing an intensive investigation and manhunt after a deadly shooting in Kauffman County that left one 18-year-old dead and another critically wounded, and has prompted statewide and federal law enforcement involvement as they seek at least one suspect in the case. The deadly incident occurred late last week when sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of gunfire near the intersection of County Roads 101 and 103. When officers arrived, they found two 18‑year‑old males suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. One victim, identified as K. Letherwood, was pronounced dead after being transported to a medical facility, while the other, identified as L. VeIez, survived his wounds and was hospitalized in serious condition.
Law enforcement quickly determined that the shooting was not a random act of violence but instead involved multiple assailants who opened fire on the victims. Investigators have said that the suspects discharged more than 30 rounds during the encounter and that after the initial gunfire, one or more of them stole the victims’ truck and used it to run over at least one of the wounded victims. The severity of the violence and the number of shots fired alarmed both local and regional law enforcement, prompting an urgent response.
The KCSO issued warrants charging 18‑year‑old D. Rodrigues with capital murder in connection with the shooting. Federal partners, including the Texas Rangers and the U.S. Marshals Service, have joined the search, which remains active as of early April. Officials have released the shooter’s physical description, stating he is approximately 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs about 130 pounds, and have stressed that he should be considered armed and dangerous. Texas authorities have also warned that he may have access to weapons and that members of the public should not attempt to approach or apprehend him if seen.
In addition to the search for the shooter, investigators believe there may be at least one other suspect still at large. Although family members of the slain victim have publicly identified the suspect as one of the people involved, law enforcement has not released the identity of any additional suspects at this time. The sheriff’s office continues to gather evidence, interview witnesses who were in the area at the time of the shooting, and follow up on tips from the public.
Officials have noted that one of the victims was able to place a 911 call following the initial shooting, providing crucial information about their location and condition that aided first responders. Witnesses who spoke to investigators described hearing a large number of shots and then seeing the victims down on the road, prompting quick calls for help. Investigators are reviewing physical evidence collected from the scene, including shell casings and vehicle marks, to reconstruct the sequence of events and determine the role each suspect played.
The killer’s family and community members have been deeply affected by the violence, and plans for memorials and services for the slain victim were announced by family and friends. Residents in the area have shared their grief and shock at the sudden loss, underscoring the impact of the shooting on this rural part of North Texas. Meanwhile, authorities urge anyone with information about the suspects or their whereabouts to contact law enforcement or local crime stoppers, reassuring that tips can be submitted confidentially. The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement continues to pursue leads and work to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
