BIG SPRING, Texas — A 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged with capital murder following a deadly double shooting late Thursday night in Big Spring that left two men dead, according to authorities.

The Big Spring Police Department said officers were dispatched to the 1600 block of Oriole Street at approximately 11:05 p.m. on May 22, 2026, following reports of shots fired in the neighborhood.

When officers and deputies with the Howard County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the scene, they discovered two men lying in the front yard of a residence in the 1600 block of Oriole Street.

The victims were identified as 44-year-old Willis J. Duval and 23-year-old Marcus D. Pena.

Emergency responders from the Big Spring Fire Department and Allegiance EMS attempted lifesaving measures at the scene, but both victims succumbed to their injuries.

Investigators determined that both men had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. Justice of the Peace Averette later officially pronounced the victims deceased.

The Big Spring Police Department Criminal Investigations Division, identification personnel, and the Texas Rangers responded to assist with the homicide investigation.

Authorities said detectives and Texas Rangers immediately began interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and pursuing investigative leads connected to the shooting.

Following the investigation, officials said probable cause was established to charge 22-year-old Ruben A. Gonzales with capital murder.

Detectives and Texas Rangers obtained an arrest warrant, and Gonzales was taken into custody on the morning of May 23, 2026, at approximately 9:30 a.m. in the 1600 block of Canary Street.

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He was booked into the Howard County Detention Center on the capital murder charge.

Authorities said the investigation into the fatal shooting remains active, and no additional information has been released at this time.

Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Big Spring Police Department.