SAN ANTONIO – It's been nearly seven years since 17-year-old Paul De Leon was shot in the back of the head at a Southeast Side intersection and died.
Nothing, not even a sketch of the suspect released years ago, has helped crack the case.
"It's like he's just forgotten," Norma Rodriguez said about her son.
Rodriguez relives Dec. 19, 2009, every day. That's the day the car De Leon and his siblings were riding in was at the intersection of South New Braunfels Avenue and Fair Avenue when a white Nissan or Ford pickup pulled up next to them. Police say an unknown man fired one shot, striking and killing De Leon.
"I'm still here waiting," the mother and grandma said. She is hoping for answers and justice.
"It's a tragedy. This was an innocent, young kid. He's supposed to be here right now," Rodriguez said.
San Antonio police spokesman Jesse Salame said the department will continue to take leads and follow up on any information. The limited vehicle description and sketch of the suspect didn't provide any answers.
"We need somebody to just come forward, tell us what happened and help us so we can give the family some peace," Salame said.
Crime Stoppers is still offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in De Leon's case. Detectives need witnesses and/or suspect names. People with information can call 210-224-STOP (7867) or text "Tip 127" plus the tip to CRIMES (274637).
Rodriguez's emotional scars run deep. She's getting ready for an annual day of comfort known as "National Day of Remembrance." That's when Rodriguez and other parents of loved ones lost to violence honor the victims.