Las Palapas Founder Ron Acosta Fatally Stabbed in Stone Oak Home; Murder Investigation Underway
SAN ANTONIO, TX — The San Antonio community is reeling after the tragic death of Edward Ronald Acosta, the beloved founder of the iconic Las Palapas restaurant chain. Affectionately known as Ron Acosta, the 78-year-old businessman and restaurateur was found stabbed to death inside his Stone Oak home on the city’s far North Side, sparking a high-profile homicide investigation.
According to San Antonio Police Chief William McManus, the call to authorities came Tuesday morning from a housekeeper who discovered Acosta’s lifeless body in his residence on the 19200 block of Reata Trail. The housekeeper, who was the only other person in the home at the time, made the harrowing 911 call, describing a gruesome scene: “There was blood all around him, and I can’t control the bleeding,” she reportedly told dispatchers.
Police confirmed that Acosta lived alone in the home.
As officers arrived on the scene, they immediately launched an investigation into what Chief McManus has described as a “high-profile murder.” Law enforcement sources later identified the victim as Ron Acosta, whose Las Palapas restaurants have become synonymous with fast-casual Mexican food across San Antonio and beyond, earning him both commercial success and deep community respect.
Suspect Arrested in Kimble County
Authorities quickly identified a suspect and issued an alert. The alleged assailant — a 39-year-old man who is not a Texas resident — was arrested later in the day in Kimble County, about 100 miles northwest of San Antonio. Law enforcement officers stopped the suspect as he was reportedly attempting to leave the state.
Although the suspect’s identity has not yet been released, police believe he is related to Acosta, and that the two had been involved in an argument that escalated into fatal violence.
“We believe the suspect and Mr. Acosta knew each other, and we have reason to believe they were related,” said Chief McManus. “There is no danger to the public at this time.”
Investigators are still working to determine a precise motive behind the killing. Authorities remain tight-lipped about what prompted the argument or how the suspect gained access to the home.
A heavy police presence remained at the Stone Oak property throughout the day Tuesday, with crime scene investigators combing through evidence and placing police tape around the perimeter of the home.
Legacy of a San Antonio Icon
Ron Acosta was more than a successful businessman — he was a local legend. He opened the first Las Palapas restaurant in 1981, inspired by his love of traditional Mexican cuisine and a dream of creating a family-friendly space that served delicious food with a warm, welcoming spirit. Over the years, his concept grew into a beloved regional chain, known for its breakfast tacos, enchiladas, and signature house salsas. But it was more than just the food — it was the community connection that made Las Palapas a San Antonio staple.
Acosta was widely respected not only for his business acumen but for his generosity and mentorship. He was known to quietly give back to the community, supporting local causes, funding scholarships, and helping employees build careers and futures.
“Ron Acosta built more than a restaurant — he built a legacy,” said one local resident who had frequented Las Palapas for decades. “He gave people jobs, dignity, and a sense of family.”
News of his tragic death has stunned the community, with tributes pouring in across social media and local networks. Patrons, employees, and fellow business owners alike are expressing grief and disbelief, mourning the loss of a man many say represented the very best of San Antonio’s entrepreneurial and cultural spirit.
Investigation Ongoing
While the suspect is now in custody and police stress that there is no continued threat to the public, investigators caution that the details of the case remain fluid. As the investigation develops, authorities are working closely with forensic teams and prosecutors to determine the next steps in filing formal charges.
For now, San Antonio is left to grapple with the loss of a man whose impact on the city will not be forgotten.
Ron Acosta’s contributions to San Antonio’s culinary landscape and community fabric will live on, even as the city mourns this heartbreaking and sudden loss. A memorial and tribute are expected in the coming days as family, friends, and loyal customers come together to honor the life of the man behind the Las Palapas legacy.
Rest in peace, Mr. Acosta. Your vision fed more than just appetites — it nourished a city.
Las Palapas Founder Ron Acosta Fatally Stabbed in Stone Oak Home; Murder Investigation Underway
SAN ANTONIO, TX — The San Antonio community is reeling after the tragic death of Edward Ronald Acosta, the beloved founder of the iconic Las Palapas restaurant chain. Affectionately known as Ron Acosta, the 78-year-old businessman and restaurateur was found stabbed to death inside his Stone Oak home on the city’s far North Side, sparking a high-profile homicide investigation.
According to San Antonio Police Chief William McManus, the call to authorities came Tuesday morning from a housekeeper who discovered Acosta’s lifeless body in his residence on the 19200 block of Reata Trail. The housekeeper, who was the only other person in the home at the time, made the harrowing 911 call, describing a gruesome scene: “There was blood all around him, and I can’t control the bleeding,” she reportedly told dispatchers.
Police confirmed that Acosta lived alone in the home.
As officers arrived on the scene, they immediately launched an investigation into what Chief McManus has described as a “high-profile murder.” Law enforcement sources later identified the victim as Ron Acosta, whose Las Palapas restaurants have become synonymous with fast-casual Mexican food across San Antonio and beyond, earning him both commercial success and deep community respect.
Suspect Arrested in Kimble County
Authorities quickly identified a suspect and issued an alert. The alleged assailant — a 39-year-old man who is not a Texas resident — was arrested later in the day in Kimble County, about 100 miles northwest of San Antonio. Law enforcement officers stopped the suspect as he was reportedly attempting to leave the state.
Although the suspect’s identity has not yet been released, police believe he is related to Acosta, and that the two had been involved in an argument that escalated into fatal violence.
“We believe the suspect and Mr. Acosta knew each other, and we have reason to believe they were related,” said Chief McManus. “There is no danger to the public at this time.”
Investigators are still working to determine a precise motive behind the killing. Authorities remain tight-lipped about what prompted the argument or how the suspect gained access to the home.
A heavy police presence remained at the Stone Oak property throughout the day Tuesday, with crime scene investigators combing through evidence and placing police tape around the perimeter of the home.
Legacy of a San Antonio Icon
Ron Acosta was more than a successful businessman — he was a local legend. He opened the first Las Palapas restaurant in 1981, inspired by his love of traditional Mexican cuisine and a dream of creating a family-friendly space that served delicious food with a warm, welcoming spirit. Over the years, his concept grew into a beloved regional chain, known for its breakfast tacos, enchiladas, and signature house salsas. But it was more than just the food — it was the community connection that made Las Palapas a San Antonio staple.
Acosta was widely respected not only for his business acumen but for his generosity and mentorship. He was known to quietly give back to the community, supporting local causes, funding scholarships, and helping employees build careers and futures.
“Ron Acosta built more than a restaurant — he built a legacy,” said one local resident who had frequented Las Palapas for decades. “He gave people jobs, dignity, and a sense of family.”
News of his tragic death has stunned the community, with tributes pouring in across social media and local networks. Patrons, employees, and fellow business owners alike are expressing grief and disbelief, mourning the loss of a man many say represented the very best of San Antonio’s entrepreneurial and cultural spirit.
Investigation Ongoing
While the suspect is now in custody and police stress that there is no continued threat to the public, investigators caution that the details of the case remain fluid. As the investigation develops, authorities are working closely with forensic teams and prosecutors to determine the next steps in filing formal charges.
For now, San Antonio is left to grapple with the loss of a man whose impact on the city will not be forgotten.
Ron Acosta’s contributions to San Antonio’s culinary landscape and community fabric will live on, even as the city mourns this heartbreaking and sudden loss. A memorial and tribute are expected in the coming days as family, friends, and loyal customers come together to honor the life of the man behind the Las Palapas legacy.
Rest in peace, Mr. Acosta. Your vision fed more than just appetites — it nourished a city.
