Ivan Ramirez killed: 15-year-old charged in shooting death of Texas Magic Fastpitch Travel softball coach, HPD says

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Police say a 15-year-old is responsible for shooting and killing a beloved Houston-area softball coach while he tried to steal his truck.

Investigators said the shooting happened March 31, Easter Sunday, outside the victim’s home at an apartment on the South Beltway near Pearland.

The victim is Ivan Ramirez, 42, coach of the Texas Magic Fastpitch Travel softball team.

Ivan Ramirez’s son, Manny Ramirez, now helps coach the team.

“Being a big brother is all I can ask for and I know that’s all he ever wanted, and we talked about it,” Manny Ramirez said.

Investigators said a witness reported seeing a suspect wearing a yellow hoodie inspect Ramirez’s car, and he then saw the same person take off in a gray pickup truck after the shooting.

The Houston Police Department said it identified the suspect as 15 years old, but did not release the teen’s identity because of his age.

The teen was charged with capital murder and arrested June 6, according to HPD.

This is now the second minor in the space of a week to face a capital murder charge.

The other unrelated case involves a 14-year-old accused of shooting an employee at a Houston farmers’ market while trying to steal a golf cart.

SEE MORE: 14-year-old suspect in fatal shooting at Houston farmers market must remain in custody, judge says

Manny Ramirez said he was crazy to think teenagers just younger than him were committing these crimes.

“The fact that this kid is in school, playing sports, getting a job, getting his license in one year, it’s really sad,” Manny Ramirez said.

Investigators said Ivan Ramirez was at home in an apartment complex on Easter Sunday when an app on his phone alerted him that his truck door had been opened.

HPD said when they went outside to investigate, the 15-year-old allegedly shot him multiple times.

Manny Ramirez and his mother were steps away when it happened.

“All I hear is four gunshots in a row. My mom and I looked at each other in shock,” Manny Ramirez said.

Manny Ramirez and his mother put pressure on Ivan Ramirez’s injuries until an ambulance arrived.

Ivan Ramirez was taken to Ben Taub Hospital, underwent several surgeries and was in critical condition before he died a few weeks later.

A GoFundMe was set up to help the family with their expenses.

If you know anything about this case, authorities urge you to contact the Houston Police Department’s Homicide Division at (713) 308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at (713) 222-TIPS.

Tipsters should contact Crime Stoppers directly to remain anonymous and be considered for a cash payment by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a tip online or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app.

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