April 1, 2026
(McKinney, Texas) – Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis announced today that Emiliano Miguel Zapatero, now 17, of McKinney, was convicted of Capital Murder for the killing of two men in McKinney in late 2024. Because Zapatero was under the age of 18 at the time of the offense, Texas law required a sentence of life imprisonment with parole eligibility after 40 calendar years.
The Crime
On November 9, 2024, officers with the McKinney Police Department responded to a shooting call near Chestnut Street in McKinney. Upon arrival, officers found two victims suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The victims were transferred to Medical City McKinney, where they were later pronounced deceased.
The Investigation
Investigators processed the crime scene and collected evidence, including surveillance footage of the incident. The video showed Zapatero repeatedly attempting to obtain a firearm from another person at the scene. After gaining control of the weapon, Zapatero shot the two victims as they attempted to flee. He fired a total of 13 shots, then struck both men in the head with the firearm before fleeing. Detectives Monte Robertson and Mark Brydges led the investigation and located and arrested Zapatero several days later.
Verdict and Sentence
Zapatero was 16 years old at the time of the offense but was certified to stand trial as an adult due to the seriousness of the crime. After reviewing the video evidence and hearing testimony from witnesses, the jury convicted Zapatero of Capital Murder. Judge Andrea Thompson imposed the automatic life sentence required by Texas law for a certified juvenile offender. Because the defendant was under 18 at the time of the offense, the sentence includes parole eligibility after serving 40 calendar years, with no reduction for good-conduct time.
Statement from DA Greg Willis
“This conviction and life sentence deliver accountability for the brutal murder of two men. No family should have to bury loved ones because of this kind of senseless violence. Our thoughts remain with the victims’ families as they continue to grieve,” stated Willis after sentencing.
Prosecution Team
Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Alex Oestreich and Ann Mathew prosecuted the case, aided by District Attorney Investigator Jeremy Bigham.
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