The community is mourning the tragic loss of Jazz Joseph Fernandez, 24, who passed away on March 25, 2026, following an officer-involved shooting in Castle Hills.
Fernandez was involved in a hit-and-run along Loop 410 near the Blanco Road interchange early Wednesday morning. According to authorities, the situation escalated when Fernandez exited his vehicle and, while reportedly holding an edged weapon, approached a responding officer. Dash-cam footage captured the incident, showing the officer backing up before firing, ultimately fatally wounding Fernandez.
Eyewitness Efren Young, who initially witnessed the hit-and-run, described the scene as shocking and terrifying. “You would never think that you would see this like in person, right in front of you at that time,” Young said. “I was at a loss for words. I was shaking. I just didn’t know what to do.”
Abel Pena, a former FBI agent, reviewed the footage and noted that the officer had little time to react. “Any reasonable person would perceive that as a threat,” he stated, adding that the officer’s response appeared appropriate to protect himself and others.
The Texas Rangers are conducting an independent investigation into the shooting at the request of the Castle Hills Police Department. Officials confirmed that Fernandez was pronounced deceased from his injuries sustained in the encounter.
Fernandez was 24 years old and leaves behind family and friends who are grieving his sudden and tragic passing. While details surrounding the hit-and-run and the circumstances leading up to the incident are still under investigation, his loss is deeply felt by those who knew him.
The Castle Hills Police Department and the Texas Rangers continue to review all evidence, and authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Jazz Joseph Fernandez will be remembered by his loved ones for the joy and presence he brought into their lives. The community extends its condolences to his family and friends during this profoundly difficult time.
