19-year-old killed in homicide at San Marcos apartment complex

A 19-year-old was killed in a homicide that occurred at The Cottages at San Marcos apartments on Sunday. 

San Marcos Police Department officers responded to the apartment complex at 1415 Craddock Avenue for a person who suffered a gunshot wound. Officials said police located one victim upon arrival. The victim has been identified as Lavonte Craig Benford. The City of San Marcos said Benford was not a Texas State University student. 

Benford was pronounced dead at the scene by Justice of the Peace Jo Ann Prado. An autopsy will be conducted by the Travis County Medical Examiner to confirm the cause of death, the city said. 

Benford graduated from Manor ISD in the spring. The district said in a statement that he was “affectionately called ‘Red’ by family and friends.”

“Red was a student-athlete and well known for his skill and abilities in football and track,” Manor ISD said. “We wish our deepest condolences to his parents, siblings, family and all who loved him. Manor ISD is working closely with Travis County and the City of Manor to provide support to our community during this time of grieving and healing. A crisis team is available this week at Manor High School and Manor Senior High. We will forever cherish Red's memory at Manor ISD and will never forget his picture perfect smile.” 

Officials said police are interviewing witnesses and working to identify an alleged suspect in the incident. The city said preliminary information gathered during the investigation suggests the incident is isolated and there is no ongoing threat to the public. 

Sunday’s incident marked the fourth homicide investigated by the San Marcos Police Department in 2021.