UPDATE: Four men, including a former Guadalupe County Sheriff’s deputy and a Blanco County constable officer, have been charged following a violent bar fight that erupted earlier this month at the Backwoods Icehouse in Guadalupe County. The incident occurred on November 3, 2023, sparking a swift investigation by local authorities.
According to the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO), the fight involved multiple individuals, with deputies identifying Alberto Trujano Jr., Juan Herrera, and Sheriden Murray as key participants. Murray, who was a deputy with the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office and employed by the Blanco County Constable Precinct 1 at the time, now faces serious charges. Manuel Hernandez, another deputy, reportedly fled the scene before authorities arrived.
Trujano was arrested on a parole violation warrant and charged with disorderly conduct – fighting. Herrera was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment before also being charged with the same offense. The severity of the incident has raised concerns within the local law enforcement community.
Authorities from the GCSO and the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Texas Rangers Division launched a thorough investigation examining the involvement of Murray and Hernandez. On November 19 and 20, arrest warrants were issued for both men. Murray now faces charges of unlawful restraint, while Hernandez has been charged with disorderly conduct – fighting.
As of Thursday morning, authorities confirmed that Hernandez had been placed on administrative leave during the investigation. He was subsequently fired and booked into the Guadalupe County Jail on November 22. Meanwhile, Murray remains at large with an active arrest warrant.
Sheriff Joshua Ray emphasized the importance of accountability among law enforcement personnel, stating, “Our personnel will be held to the highest possible standards of conduct and accountability. I will not tolerate any form of unbecoming or criminal behavior from a law enforcement officer—of any agency—and especially from within my own ranks.”
This developing story highlights the significant scrutiny facing law enforcement agencies as they navigate incidents involving their own officers. The investigation remains ongoing, with community members closely watching for further updates.
Stay tuned for more details as this situation unfolds.
