UPDATE: Four men, including a former Guadalupe County Sheriff’s deputy and a Blanco County constable officer, are now facing serious charges following a violent altercation at the Backwoods Icehouse bar in Texas on November 3, 2023. The incident has raised significant concerns about accountability within local law enforcement.
According to the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO), the fight erupted in the parking lot of the bar located at 3301 Dreibrodt Road. Responding deputies quickly identified Alberto Trujano Jr., Juan Herrera, and Sheriden Murray as primary figures in the brawl. Notably, Murray was serving as a constable officer at the time, having previously been a deputy for the GCSO.
Reports indicate that Manuel Hernandez, another deputy, fled the scene before authorities arrived. Trujano has been arrested on a warrant for parole violation and charged with disorderly conduct for fighting. Meanwhile, Herrera required hospitalization for injuries sustained during the altercation and has also been charged with disorderly conduct.
An ongoing investigation led by the GCSO’s Criminal Investigations Division and the Texas Department of Public Safety is scrutinizing the actions of Murray and Hernandez. Arrest warrants were issued for both on November 19 and 20. Murray is facing charges of unlawful restraint, while Hernandez has been charged with disorderly conduct related to the fight.
Following the incident, Hernandez was placed on administrative leave, but he was subsequently terminated and booked into the Guadalupe County Jail on November 22. As of Thursday morning, authorities report that Murray has yet to be apprehended.
Sheriff Joshua Ray emphasized the need for high standards among law enforcement, stating, “Our personnel will be held to the highest possible standards of conduct and accountability. I will not tolerate any form of unbecoming or criminal behavior from a law enforcement officer—of any agency—and especially from within my own ranks.”
This incident has not only shocked the local community but has also prompted broader discussions about the conduct of law enforcement officers. The investigation remains active, with authorities urging anyone with further information to come forward.
As developments unfold, residents are encouraged to stay informed about this urgent situation impacting local law enforcement and community trust.
