Sketches released of suspects who murdered taco stand owner

HCSO created a Mobile Food Vendors on Patrol Program

HOUSTON – The search continues for the suspects who shot and killed the owner of a taco stand over the weekend.

Deputies said Lorenzo Juan Vasquez, 53, was killed at his taco stand, located at 8110 Fairbanks North Houston Road in northwest Harris County, Saturday afternoon.

Authorities said the suspects tried to rob Vasquez, but did not get away with any money. The gunman first asked for something to eat, but then went inside the truck and shot Vasquez during a struggle.

Investigators with the Harris County Sheriff's Office and members of Vasquez's family came together for a press conference Tuesday morning.

Vasquez's wife said her late husband hoped to own a restaurant one day. He was described as a hard worker and handyman who was always willing to help.

Authorities released sketches of the two suspects who are described as Hispanic men. The gunman is believed to be in his early 20s with a tear drop tattoo on his face. The other man police are looking for was the driver. He had the Texans logo tattooed on his head. 

The sheriff's office also announced the creation of the HCSO Mobile Food Vendors on Patrol Program. As part of the program, Mobile Food Vendors are encouraged to serve as "eyes and ears" on the streets of Harris County because they know their areas well, and will likely notice if anything/anyone doesn't belong.

Vendors who are interested in becoming part of this safety partnership should call the HCSO Crime Prevention Unit at 713-759-9454.

Anyone with information about the suspects' identity in this case and/or their location is asked to call Houston Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477) or the Harris County Sheriff's Office Homicide Division at 713-967-5810.