Marine Veteran Severely Injured in Shooting Outside Texas Sports Bar
In a tragic incident outside a Texas sports bar, a Marine Corps veteran working as a security guard was shot and left paralyzed following an altercation with an illegal immigrant. The victim, Jimmy Friesenhahn, a 44-year-old Marine who served for 14 years including deployments to combat zones, now faces a daunting battle for recovery.
The Incident Unfolds
At approximately 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, the confrontation occurred outside El Patio Sports Bar. Mr. Friesenhahn reportedly spotted a man, later identified as 29-year-old Wilmer Vladmir Ortega Ruiz, appearing to carry a concealed weapon. When Mr. Friesenhahn attempted to disarm him, a struggle ensued.
During the scuffle, Ortega Ruiz opened fire, striking Mr. Friesenhahn three times — once in the neck and twice while he wore a bulletproof vest.
Devastating Aftermath
As a result of the shooting, Mr. Friesenhahn sustained severe injuries, including a ruptured esophagus and vocal cords, along with a complete spinal cord injury that has left him paralyzed and unable to speak. Despite undergoing six surgeries to address the damage, his condition has continued to decline.
Suspect’s Troubling History
Ortega Ruiz was apprehended on May 4 by federal immigration authorities after entering the country illegally. Disturbingly, he is a repeat offender with a history of arrests:
- October 2020: Charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) in San Antonio but failed to appear in court after being released on bond.
- The DWI charge was downgraded to impeding a public passageway, to which he pleaded guilty, yet he violated probation conditions.
- August 2023: Arrested again for probation violation.
- September 2023: Arrested a third time and released on bond; again failed to appear for court.
- November 2024: Fourth arrest followed by sentencing to time served just weeks later.
Family Demands Justice Amid Frustration
Mr. Friesenhahn’s family has voiced their outrage over what they describe as a lenient response by the local District Attorney's office. They argue that the repeat offenses by Ortega Ruiz, coupled with multiple failures to appear and violations, have not been met with adequate prosecution.
There are growing calls for stronger legal action to ensure accountability and prevent such violent encounters, especially involving individuals with prior arrests who remain free on repeated bonds.
Looking Ahead
As Mr. Friesenhahn continues his recovery under critical circumstances, this case shines a spotlight on concerns surrounding repeat offenders, immigration enforcement, and public safety. Authorities have the suspect in custody, and a legal process is underway to address the charges linked to the violent shooting.
