Heartbroken Family Mourns Grandfather Shot While Fetching Happy Meals for Grandkids

KATY, Texas — A tragic incident unfolded Sunday evening at a McDonald’s in Katy when innocent bystander Jorge Arbaiza, 61, was fatally shot in a crossfire during a violent altercation between two groups of young people.

Arbaiza had entered the restaurant on Little York near Fry Road to purchase Happy Meals for his grandchildren, who were waiting in the car with their grandmother, Teresa. Just moments before the gunfire erupted, Teresa noticed a man brandishing a firearm through her rearview mirror.

In the ensuing panic, customers fled the establishment while Teresa made a frantic call to her husband. He informed her he had been shot multiple times, stating in distress, “‘I’m dying, I’m going to die.'” Those were the last words Teresa heard from her husband of 39 years.

Jorge was transported to a hospital via Life Flight, but medical staff could not save him. Teresa described her husband as devoted to their grandchildren, expressing heartbreak over the loss.

Authorities with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office reported that the fast-food location was crowded at the time, with many children present. Investigators have identified the two groups involved — one arrived in a maroon SUV and the other in a white sedan. A K-9 team is actively searching for evidence at the scene.

As the investigation continues, family members are seeking justice for Jorge. His sister-in-law, Zoila Garcia, emphasized the need for accountability, urging law enforcement to apprehend those responsible for this tragedy. “It’s so unjust,” she lamented.

A 25-year-old man involved in the confrontation sustained injuries but is expected to recover. Authorities encourage anyone with information regarding the incident to contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS (8477).