Murder of Las Palapas Founder by Nephew
The founder of the well-known Mexican restaurant chain Las Palapas, Edward “Ron” Acosta, was reportedly killed by his nephew, who was experiencing severe delusions. This tragic incident unfolded when the nephew traveled from California to Texas, culminating in a shocking crime.
At 78 years old, Acosta was discovered fatally stabbed in his home in a San Antonio gated community. His nephew, David Lewis, 39, allegedly committed the act on Tuesday. According to reports, Lewis had informed his family he was traveling to San Antonio to visit his cousin, the son of Acosta.
Equipped with a gun, Lewis was dealing with a significant mental health crisis, as indicated by statements from his father, James Lewis. He expressed worry for his son, saying he feared for his son’s life, not believing that anyone else would be harmed. “He completely snapped,” James remarked, alluding to his son’s fragile mental state.
James recounted that prior to his departure for Texas, David exhibited troubling signs of mental instability. He hadn’t slept for days, was experiencing hallucinations, and was heavily paranoid. Out of concern for his cousin, James reached out to Aaron Acosta, alerting him that David might be capable of harming someone due to his worsening conditions.
On the way to San Antonio, David contacted Aaron but chose to stay overnight elsewhere before arriving. The following morning, Acosta invited him to spend the night at his house. David accepted, but when he arrived, Acosta messaged the family group chat about David being there and suggested a gathering to discuss the situation.
Tragically, around 11 a.m., police received a call from Acosta’s residence where he was found with multiple stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene, per an arrest affidavit.
A housekeeper witnessed Lewis attacking Acosta and pleaded for him to stop before dialing 911. Lewis fled the scene, and when his father learned of the murder, he urged David through a text to turn himself in to authorities.
Hours later, police apprehended Lewis near Kimble County, roughly 100 miles northwest of San Antonio. He is currently awaiting extradition to Bexar County to face charges of first-degree murder.
Acosta established Las Palapas in 1981 and grew the chain to numerous locations across southern and central Texas before selling a majority share in 2020. He garnered respect and affection in the San Antonio community, known for his charitable work and deep faith, as noted by friend Gilbert Hernandez.
Las Palapas Restaurant expressed its sorrow over Acosta’s passing, describing him as a man of profound faith and generosity. “His warmth, vision, and work ethic left a lasting impression on San Antonio,” the restaurant stated, highlighting his impact on the community through job creation and cultural enrichment.
