Laredo Domestic Violence Survivor Shares Her Story
A shooting survivor is speaking out to encourage other victims to seek help and recognize early warning signs.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Violence
After enduring a brutal attack during a custody exchange in June 2024, a Laredo woman is sharing her recovery journey to inspire others to leave abusive situations. She aims to provide a path forward for families trapped in cycles of violence.
Why it matters
The survivor hopes that by detailing her experience, she can help other victims recognize dangerous patterns before they escalate to fatalities. Her advocacy also highlights the resilience required to survive severe trauma and rebuild a life for her daughters.
Billy Delgado was convicted of aggravated assault and sentenced to 50 years in prison for the attack. The victim, Erica Torres, spent one year in the hospital and underwent more than 30 surgeries following the incident.
The players
Erica Torres
She is a domestic violence survivor who is advocating for other victims after surviving a shooting in Laredo.
Billy Delgado
He is the convicted perpetrator who received a 50-year prison sentence for aggravated assault.
The details
Erica Torres was shot five times by Billy Delgado during a custody exchange, which forced her to crash her car while trying to drive to safety. She is now speaking publicly to demonstrate resilience to her daughters and assist other families in exiting abusive relationships.
Timeline
In June 2024, Erica Torres was shot five times during a custody exchange.
In September 2026, Erica Torres began sharing her story ahead of Awareness Month.
Legal Context
This case reflects broader efforts to hold perpetrators accountable for severe domestic violence through lengthy sentencing. The advocacy work by the survivor aligns with existing support frameworks like the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which provides essential services for those at risk.
Residents in the Laredo area can access immediate support for themselves or others by calling 1-800-799-SAFE. This resource provides a confidential way for individuals to recognize warning signs and find safe ways to exit potentially volatile situations.
The takeaway
Recognizing the early warning signs of abuse can be the most critical step in preventing life-threatening escalation. Survivors emphasize that seeking professional assistance early can save lives and help families find a path to safety.
Further reading
For more information on local safety resources, visit the Violence section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kgns.
