TEMPLE, TX — In the quiet hours of early Sunday morning, tragedy unfolded on North 1st Street in Temple, Texas. Two families now face unimaginable grief, and a community struggles to make sense of a violent act that claimed the lives of two young men, both just beginning their lives. The Temple Police Department has identified the victims of the fatal shooting as Marcos Humberto Anaya Jr., 17, and Tristan Deon Martin, 18, both residents of Temple.
The incident occurred in the 1900 block of North 1st Street at approximately 4:09 a.m. on Sunday, April 13. Officers responded swiftly to reports of gunfire. Upon arriving at the scene, they discovered a young male—later confirmed to be Marcos Anaya Jr.—suffering from a severe gunshot wound. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Just minutes later, at around 4:16 a.m., authorities received notification that another victim, later identified as Tristan Martin, had been transported to a local hospital by a friend in a desperate attempt to save his life. Tragically, medical personnel confirmed that Tristan had succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Remembering the Victims: A Community in Mourning
The losses of Marcos and Tristan have sent shockwaves through the Temple community. Both young men were known for their vibrant personalities, deep-rooted friendships, and promising futures. Though details of their lives are still emerging, family members, friends, and local leaders are beginning to speak out—mourning not only the loss of life but the loss of potential, dreams, and cherished relationships.
Marcos Humberto Anaya Jr., 17
Known affectionately to his loved ones as “Junior,” Marcos was a student, a brother, a son, and a friend to many. He was a senior at a local high school in Temple, with plans to graduate this year. Described by friends as energetic, kind-hearted, and fiercely loyal, Marcos was involved in sports and aspired to enter the trade industry or join the military after graduation.
“He was always smiling, always looking out for others,” said one of his cousins, Maria Anaya. “Junior had dreams, goals. He wanted to make something of himself. And he was so close.”
Family members say Marcos was the kind of young man who would lend a hand without being asked, whether it was helping neighbors, standing up for a friend, or assisting his parents at home. He loved music, especially old-school hip-hop and Latin beats, and had recently started learning how to produce music on his laptop.
Tristan Deon Martin, 18
Tristan had recently celebrated his 18th birthday. He was a thoughtful, creative young man who enjoyed writing poetry and was working on getting a part-time job to help support his younger siblings. A recent graduate from Temple High School, Tristan was considering enrolling at Temple College to study criminal justice—he had dreams of becoming a police officer to help protect the very community he grew up in.
“He wanted to be a difference-maker,” said a former teacher. “He asked hard questions in class. He really wanted to know how the world worked—and how he could make it better.”
His mother, Latasha Martin, expressed heartbreak and disbelief. “My baby was just out with friends. He was supposed to come home. I never imagined I would be planning his funeral instead.”
Tristan was known for his sense of humor and his deep empathy. Friends recalled how he often checked in on others, even when he was going through tough times himself. His passing has left a deep void in the lives of those who loved him.
The Shooting: What We Know So Far
While many details remain under investigation, the Temple Police Department has confirmed that officers were dispatched at 4:09 a.m. in response to calls of shots fired. The crime scene, located in a residential area, was quickly secured. Detectives with the Criminal Investigations Division are now leading the case, working to uncover what led to the deadly encounter.
At this time, police have not announced any suspects or made any arrests. Investigators are working tirelessly to collect evidence, review nearby surveillance footage, and speak with potential witnesses.
Preliminary reports suggest that the shooting may have occurred following a late-night gathering or party in the area. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities—including whether the victims were targeted or caught in the crossfire of a larger conflict. The motive remains unclear.
Police have issued a public appeal for anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward. Tipsters can contact the Temple Police Department directly or submit anonymous leads through Bell County Crime Stoppers at 254-526-8477.
Community Outpouring and Support
In the aftermath of the tragedy, members of the community have come together in support of the victims’ families. Candlelight vigils are being planned in Temple, and makeshift memorials with flowers, photos, and handwritten notes have begun to appear near the site of the shooting.
Local churches and community organizations have opened their doors to those seeking counseling or a place to gather. The Temple Independent School District issued a statement expressing sorrow and solidarity with the grieving families, and grief counselors have been made available to students at the high school.
“These are not just statistics. These were our kids, our students, our friends,” said Pastor Raymond Ellis of Unity Baptist Church. “We are all grieving. But we must also come together to demand peace and justice.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help support funeral expenses and provide financial assistance to the families. As of this writing, thousands of dollars have already been raised.
A Broader Context: Rising Youth Violence and the Search for Solutions
The tragic deaths of Marcos Anaya Jr. and Tristan Martin have reignited concerns about youth violence and gun crime in Central Texas. While Temple is often regarded as a peaceful city, residents and officials acknowledge that incidents like this are becoming more frequent, especially among young people.
Community leaders have renewed calls for investment in youth programs, mentorship opportunities, and outreach services aimed at preventing violence before it begins.
“These young men should still be with us,” said City Council member Angela Moreno. “We owe it to them, and to all our children, to take a hard look at what’s happening in our neighborhoods—and to act.”
Seeking Justice and Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, the families of Marcos and Tristan are calling for answers, accountability, and justice. They are asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything to come forward and help bring closure to their grief.
“We just want justice for our son,” said Humberto Anaya Sr., Marcos’s father. “If anyone knows something—anything—please come forward. Help us make sense of this nightmare.”
The Temple Police Department has pledged to keep the community informed as more details emerge and to exhaust every lead in pursuit of the truth.
“We will not rest until those responsible are held accountable,” said Police Chief Sean Morgan. “This is a tragedy that has rocked our city, and we are committed to justice for these young men and their families.”
If you have any information related to the shooting on North 1st Street on April 13, 2025, please contact the Temple Police Department at (254) 298-5500 or submit an anonymous tip through Bell County Crime Stoppers at 254-526-8477.
In Memoriam: Marcos Humberto Anaya Jr. and Tristan Deon Martin
As the sun sets on the lives of two remarkable young men, their families, friends, and community are left to carry the weight of their absence. Let us remember them not only for the tragedy of their passing but for the joy, hope, and love they brought to those around them.
In their names, may we find the strength to seek justice, the wisdom to protect our youth, and the compassion to hold each other a little closer.
May Marcos and Tristan rest in peace—and may their memories live on.
