MANHUNT: Prominent Texas Businessman and Gov. Abbott Appointee Fatally Shot in McAllen

McAllen, Texas — A well-known Rio Grande Valley businessman and state appointee of Governor Greg Abbott was shot and killed over the weekend in this border city, authorities said Monday.

Eddy Betancourt, 61, of Mission, Texas, was found unresponsive with apparent gunshot wounds inside a business on the 800 block of North Ware Road on Saturday afternoon, December 27, 2025. McAllen police responded to a 911 call reporting a man on the floor, possibly shot and not breathing. Betancourt was pronounced dead at the scene.

The McAllen Police Department is investigating the incident as a homicide. On Sunday, authorities identified 60-year-old Reynaldo Mata-Rios as the primary suspect and issued a murder warrant—a first-degree felony. Mata-Rios, last known to reside in Pharr, Texas, reportedly indicated to officials that he intended to surrender but remained at large as of late Sunday. Police described him as 6 feet tall, approximately 195 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Betancourt was a prominent figure in the region, serving as president of R&B General Construction Co. Inc. and co-owner and president of National Tire and Wheel LLC. He also held leadership roles in real estate and community organizations, including membership in the Greater McAllen Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors.

In 2020, Governor Greg Abbott appointed Betancourt to the Texas Facilities Commission, which oversees the construction, maintenance, and leasing of state-owned buildings. He was reappointed in 2023 for a term extending to January 31, 2029. Betancourt also served as vice chairman of the Hidalgo County Appraisal District Board of Directors.

Local leaders expressed shock and grief over the loss. Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez called Betancourt a "tireless advocate" and "dear friend," noting his contributions to local and state initiatives. Mission City Councilman Ruben Plata, who knew Betancourt from their university days in the 1980s, described him as a "hard-working gentleman" and "good businessman."

No motive for the shooting has been released, and the investigation remains ongoing with assistance from local, state, and federal agencies. Authorities urge anyone with information on Mata-Rios's whereabouts to contact the McAllen Police Department.

17GEN4.com