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3d ago

Las Palapas Founder’s Nephew Charged in Fatal Stabbing

David Ruiz awaits extradition in a case that has prompted widespread tributes to the late restaurateur’s legacy.

David Ruiz, 39, is charged with murder in the stabbing death of his uncle, Edward Acosta, 78, founder of the La Palapas chain of Tex-Mex restaurants.
The Blanco Road location of Las Palapas. The restaurant chain's founder, Edward "Ron" Acosta, was stabbed to death on Tuesday by a nephew, authorities said.
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Overview

  • David Ruiz, 39, has been charged with murder in the July 1 stabbing of his uncle, Las Palapas founder Edward R. “Ron” Acosta, and is held pending extradition to Bexar County.
  • Authorities tracked Ruiz from Whittier, California, to Acosta’s home in the Reata Trail gated community before sheriff’s deputies arrested him without incident at a Kimble County truck stop.
  • Acosta’s housekeeper found him bleeding from multiple stab wounds and called 911; he was pronounced dead at the scene.
  • Family members report Ruiz showed signs of rapid mental decline, raising questions about gaps in mental health intervention and crisis response.
  • Acosta expanded Las Palapas from a single taco stand in 1981 to more than 20 locations, earning a reputation for charitable outreach and Sunday closures to honor family and faith.