Dallas police have added a federal charge to the case of Jose Alarcon-Sanchez, 18, one of the men arrested in connection with a New Year’s Eve incident where semi-automatic rifles were fired from a Dallas bridge. Alarcon-Sanchez, of Grand Prairie, is now facing charges for both illegally possessing a firearm and discharging a firearm within city limits.
New Federal Charge in Dallas Bridge Shooting
The new charge stems from a search of Alarcon-Sanchez’s home, which revealed he entered the U.S. in May 2025 on a temporary visitor visa and did not apply for an extension. The U.S. Attorney’s office states he has remained in the country illegally, despite his visa’s expiration and requirement to return to Mexico.
During the search, authorities also found several firearms, including one believed to have been used in the bridge shooting. These included a .380 caliber pistol, a 9mm caliber pistol, and three 5.56 caliber AR-15 pistols. One of the AR-15 pistols was linked to casings found at the scene.
Alarcon-Sanchez was initially arrested on New Year’s Day in Grand Prairie following a separate shots fired call. Officers reportedly found live rounds in his possession, as well as an AK-47-style rifle in his van.
An appearance date for Alarcon-Sanchez in federal court has not yet been scheduled. The investigation was a joint effort by ATF Dallas, the Dallas Police Department, and the Grand Prairie Police Department, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Marissa Aulbaugh leading the prosecution.
Additional Suspects and Related Investigations
Anthony Acevedo, 20, of Grand Prairie, was also arrested in connection with the bridge shooting and faces a charge of discharging a firearm in certain municipalities. He has since been released on bond.
Authorities also uncovered evidence linking a third individual, Derce Lara, to a road-rage incident in November. Police allege Lara fired multiple rounds into a vehicle carrying three adults and three children, including a three-year-old. Lara is currently being held on an immigration hold.
What They’re Saying
“This type of violent behavior wrought tremendous danger to countless lives on the bridge that night,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould.
“Firing a rifle from a crowded bridge in the middle of downtown Dallas posed a serious threat to public safety. Through close coordination with the Dallas Police Department and the use of NIBIN, investigators were able to connect critical ballistic evidence and advance this case. ATF will continue working with our partners to address violent crime and protect our communities,” said ATF Dallas Special Agent in Charge Brian W. Garner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges does Jose Alarcon-Sanchez currently face?
Jose Alarcon-Sanchez faces a federal charge of unlawful possession of a firearm, as well as a Class A misdemeanor charge of discharging a firearm in certain municipalities.
Where did authorities recover the firearms connected to this case?
Authorities recovered firearms from Alarcon-Sanchez’s home, his van, and at the location of the New Year’s Eve shooting on the Dallas bridge.
Is Derce Lara facing charges related to the New Year’s Eve shooting?
Derce Lara is not currently charged in connection with the New Year’s Eve bridge shooting, but is being held on an immigration hold related to a separate road-rage incident in November.
As the legal proceedings unfold, what role will ballistic evidence play in determining the full extent of those involved in the New Year’s Eve shooting?
