Community reacts to convenience store closure following shooting of owners

SAN ANTONIO – Timmy Gonzales was in tears when she heard the news that the Quick Stop located in the 2800 block of Blanco Road was closed.

"They used to give our girls candy. They're so sweet," said Gonzales.

In front of the store is a growing memorial dedicated to Makansinh Udavat, 61, and his wife.

Police said it's unclear why, but a man shot Udavat and his wife in the chest Monday night.

"I wouldn't understand why. I just wouldn’t,” said Veronica Gaona, a former customer.

Makansinh Udavat died at the hospital. His wife is at home recovering.

Udavat's son asked not to be on camera but spoke to KSAT 12. He said he plans to sell the convenience store and help move his mother to New Jersey with him.

"It's sad to hear that they took (his) life," said Rachel Montelongo, a customer.

Gonzales has lived in the area for five years. She said violence in the area is nothing new.

"My husband and I are used to hearing gunfire in the neighborhood, and we make it an effort not to come out at night. We aren't living in fear of the neighborhood. It's just something that we are used to,” Gonzales said.

The man responsible for the shooting is still on the loose. Police said he was last seen in a stolen 2004 silver Kia Amanti, with Texas license plate FPG7228.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 210-224-7867.