15-year-old accused of fatally shooting Houston-area softball coach during truck theft, HPD says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A 15-year-old is suspected of shooting and killing a beloved Houston-area softball coach in an attempted truck theft, according to police.

The incident occurred on March 31, Easter Sunday, outside the victim’s apartment on the South Beltway near Pearland.

The victim, 42-year-old Ivan Ramirez, was a coach for the Texas Magic Fastpitch Travel softball team. His son, Manny Ramirez, now helps coach the team.

“Being a big brother is all I can ask for, and I know it was all he ever wanted,” Manny Ramirez said.

Investigators reported that a witness saw a suspect in a yellow hoodie inspecting Ramirez’s car and later saw the same person driving away in a gray pickup truck after the shooting.

The Houston Police Department identified the suspect as a 15-year-old but did not release the teen’s identity due to the suspect’s age. The teenager was charged with capital murder and arrested on June 6.

This case marks the second juvenile in a week to face a capital murder charge. In an unrelated incident, a 14-year-old was charged with shooting a Houston farmers market employee while attempting to steal a golf cart.

Manny Ramirez expressed disbelief that teens not much younger than him are committing such crimes.

“It’s crazy to think this kid should be in school, playing sports, getting a job, getting his license in a year. It is definitely sad,” Manny Ramirez said.

Investigators stated that Ivan Ramirez was at home on Easter Sunday when an app on his phone alerted him that his truck door had been opened. When he went outside to investigate, the 15-year-old allegedly shot him multiple times.

Manny Ramirez and his mom were nearby when it happened.

“All I hear is just four shots back-to-back. Me and my mom just looked at each other in shock,” Manny Ramirez said.

They held pressure on Ivan Ramirez’s wounds until an ambulance arrived. Ivan Ramirez was taken to Ben Taub Hospital, underwent multiple surgeries, and was in critical condition before he died weeks later.

A GoFundMe has been set up to help the family with expenses.

Authorities urge anyone with information about this case to contact the Houston Police Department’s Homicide Division at (713) 308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at (713) 222-TIPS. Tipsters must contact Crime Stoppers directly to remain anonymous and be considered for a cash reward by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477), submitting an online tip, or using the Crime Stoppers mobile app.