SAN ANTONIO – A family is devastated after their loved one was gunned down while he was on his way to work Monday.
A vigil held Tuesday for Manuel Rios, 52, was not only meant to honor him, but also to bring attention to the violence on the city's East Side.
Rios loved the Spurs. Many family members and friends showed up to the vigil in their silver and black gear to honor him.
"He was a big Spurs fan," said Manuel Rios Jr., Rios' son. "He loved the Spurs. He got mad when you talked about the Spurs."
Manuel Rios Jr. said at the vigil that he is having a hard time dealing with the murder of his father, who was also his best friend.
"I miss him, and it breaks my heart that this happened," Manuel Rios Jr. said. "And I know tears and words can't bring him back, but I know he's listening and watching right now."
Manuel Rios still had his wallet when he was found shot dead right outside of his apartment Monday morning.
"It happened for no reason, and I wish there was something I could have done," Manuel Rios Jr. said.
The family passed out fliers at the vigil, and they also posted them around the area. In the flyer, they ask anyone who may know something about Manuel Rios' murder to speak up, and they also asked for an end to the violence on the East Side.
"The crime is not going to stop until they learn how to speak up and catch these people," said Victoria Aguilera, Manuel Rios' ex-wife. "There has been 16 shootings, murders."
"When is the crime going to stop?" Manuel Rios Jr asked. "It's always in the East Side and nobody says nothing. Nobody says nothing until it's them."
Anyone with information about Manuel Rios' murder should call Crime Stoppers at 210-224-7867.