On Wednesday, San Antonio police announced a Crime Stoppers reward of $5,000 for information leading to an arrest in the murder of 15-year-old Ethan Martinez. On Saturday, Ethan's mother, Stephanie Solis said a family friend is matching the reward to make it $10,000.
Martinez was shot and killed at his northwest-side apartment complex off Ray Ellison Blvd., on Dec. 30th, 2023.
Ethan's mother, Stephanie Solis says her son was setup.
"It's been so difficult. He was my second oldest, so we were the closest. He was my best friend," said Solis.
Solis said Ethan was a great kid, respectful, loved sports, had a passion for drawing, was a beautiful soul and had a smile that would light up any room.
Just weeks after his 15th birthday, that light was dimmed after he walked outside to meet some girls. Solis says he was going to sell them vape cartridges.
"They set him up, you know, for other people to come. They came in two vehicles. As he walked up to the vehicle, he notices who it is, and that's when gunfire rings out, lots of it. Then he takes off running," said Solis.
About 30-40 gunshots were fired says Solis. She tried calling him to see where he ran off to.
"He finally answered his phone and right away I heard it in his voice that he was hurt. I just tried aiding him. He was bleeding, and then I stayed with him till EMS got there, but he didn't make it to the hospital," said Solis.
Solis says Ethan's final moments keep replaying in her mind, and his death has been difficult for her and her entire family.
"Just the way he yelled my name. Then being there with him, not being able to help him and then just being pulled away from him when the cops got there, not being able to say my final goodbyes," said Solis.
Solis is asking anyone who knows something about her son's murderer, to come forward with information. She says there were multiple witnesses.
"A good friend of mine shared on Facebook that she would match the $5,000, so the reward is up to $10,000. I feel like not all the kids thought that that was going to be the end result. I'm sure they just thought they were going to rob him, but they ended up taking his life," said Solis.
Solis says she knows whoever finds the person responsible is not going to bring her baby back, but it's the closure she and her family need. She says it's just a matter of time, and is confident she will get justice for Ethan.
If you know any information about Ethan Martinez's murder, you're urged to contact SAPD.
San Antonio Police and Crime Stoppers of San Antonio request the public’s assistance with information leading to the identification and location of the suspect(s) responsible for the Murder of Ethan Martinez (15 y/o) on 6010 Ray Ellison Blvd. on 12.30.23. For tips related to this case, please call Crime Stoppers at 210-224-STOP (210-224-7867).