Brownsville Public Library increases security after murder

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Brownsville police have released new details about the weapon used in Saturday’s fatal library shooting, but have not given a motive.

Police identified the suspect as 33-year-old Humberto Paz who was charged with murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to the Brownsville Police Department.

Paz's bond is set at over $3 million.

The victim was identified as 71-year-old Vahid Khaledi, whom his family described as a loving man to all his nephews and nieces.

Since the incident, security has increased at both of the city’s libraries. 

“It’s a complete tragedy, sir," said Resident Jacob Moses. "I was actually going there a few hours after it happened. I saw police officers. I saw medical workers carrying out a body. I’m like this is tragic that could’ve been me in there.”

Brownsville Public Information Officer Abril Luna says the shooting happened around noon.

“It was unknown what was happening inside the library," said Luna. "Upon their arrival, our officers found a male that was unresponsive on the floor with a gunshot wound to the head. The aggressor was located and was placed under arrest at the scene.”

In the wake of the shooting, Brownsville’s other public library on Southmost Boulevard now has multiple police units standing by.

Luna said the gun that was seized after the shooting was a 9-millimeter Ruger, but she doesn’t know if Paz owned the weapon or acquired it legally.

She said they are still working to confirm more information on the suspect.

“Prior to the incident, there was already security at the library," said Luna. "We’re working on always bettering the security measures and we're collaborating with the city to see what we will come about this in the future.”

However, residents do not feel so assured even with increased security. 

“I just wish we could get more security in these sorts of situations," said Moses. "Now you’ve got police officers all aligned up here and it’s kind of sad to see that it took something like this you know.”

The library is declining interviews for the time being.