In Loving Memory of Alan Valenzuela
Gone Too Soon, Forever in Our Hearts
It is with broken hearts and profound sorrow that we extend our deepest condolences and prayers to the family and friends of Alan Valenzuela, a beloved young man from Presidio, Texas. Alan’s passing has left an indelible void in the hearts of all who knew him and a cloud of grief over the entire Presidio community.
This past weekend, Alan was visiting Ojinaga, Mexico, a town just across the border and a familiar place to many Presidio residents and travelers. What began as a simple evening of gathering with friends — a peaceful, routine visit — ended in tragedy when Alan was struck by random gunfire. He was not involved in any conflict, not seeking trouble, but rather innocently spending time in a place that so many have long considered safe and welcoming.
The sudden and senseless nature of this act has left a community devastated and full of questions. Why did this happen? How could a life so full of promise be taken so violently? These are questions that may never be fully answered, but what remains clear is that a beautiful soul was lost — far too soon and under circumstances no one should ever face.
Remembering Alan
Alan Valenzuela was more than just a name in a headline — he was a son, a brother, a friend, a neighbor. He was kind-hearted, loving, and deeply compassionate, with a quiet strength and a sincere smile that brightened the lives of those around him. Friends remember him as someone who always had time for others — quick to lend a helping hand, share a laugh, or simply listen when someone needed to talk.
Alan carried himself with humility, warmth, and integrity beyond his years. His youth was filled with the same hopes and dreams that any 20-year-old might hold — dreams of building a future, seeing the world, making his family proud, and living a life that mattered. And even in his short time here, he did make a difference. His life touched many, and the absence of his presence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.
A Community in Mourning
Presidio is a town bound together by shared history, deep roots, and resilient bonds. Alan’s tragic death has reverberated throughout the community, casting a long and painful shadow over what should have been just another peaceful weekend. As friends, family members, classmates, and neighbors gather to remember him, there is a collective grief — and also a collective call for answers, accountability, and justice.
The Presidio County Sheriff’s Office has announced that it will pursue any and all available avenues through state and U.S. federal resources to investigate this tragedy and seek the truth. Though the incident occurred across the border, the pain it has inflicted is felt deeply on this side, and there is a clear commitment to ensuring that Alan’s death does not go unanswered.
Holding His Memory Close
In the days and weeks ahead, vigils will be held, prayers will be shared, and stories will be told — not just of how Alan died, but more importantly, of how he lived. His legacy will live on in the laughter of his friends, in the memories cherished by his family, and in the love of a community that refuses to forget him.
Let us honor Alan not only with our mourning, but with our unity — by coming together in support of his loved ones, by demanding justice and peace, and by keeping his name alive in our hearts.
To the Valenzuela family: please know that you are not alone. We stand with you in grief, in solidarity, and in love. Your loss is our loss, and Alan’s memory will forever be a part of this community.