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Two brothers, Christian and Alejandro Treviño, were back in a McAllen courtroom Monday, facing accusations of killing their stepfather and leaving his body in a deserted area in January 2022.
Authorities say the discovery of Gabriel Quintanilla’s body in McAllen shocked the community — not only for the violence of the crime, but also for the motive investigators allege. According to the Pharr Police Department, the brothers attacked Quintanilla after a younger relative accused him of inappropriate touching.
At the time of their arrests, Christian was 17 and Alejandro 18. The case quickly drew public attention for its disturbing details and the youth of the suspects.
In Monday’s hearing, defense attorneys told the judge they are still waiting for DNA test results before moving forward. Investigators say the evidence — gathered from a GMC truck — includes brass knuckles believed to have been used in the assault.
A third man, Juan Melendez, is also charged in connection with Quintanilla’s death. Melendez, who has been out on bond since August 2022, appeared in court the same day as the brothers.
The proceedings are far from over, and the next steps hinge on the forensic analysis — a key factor in a case that has already gripped the Rio Grande Valley with its grim allegations and multiple defendants.
