Lubbock Police Seek Leads After Fatal North-Side Shooting

Lubbock police are offering a $5,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest after a 27-year-old man was fatally shot outside a north Lubbock apartment complex early Sunday.

Officers responded around 12:30 a.m. to the 700 block of North Ithaca Avenue, west of Indiana Avenue, where they found Joe Ybarra Jr. suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to University Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries.

Investigators have not identified a suspect or disclosed what may have led to the shooting. The homicide investigation remains active.

Police are urging anyone with information about the case to contact Lubbock Crime Line at 806-741-1000. Authorities said a reward of up to $5,000 is available for information that results in an arrest.

Ybarra's family said they are hoping someone with information will come forward to help investigators identify those responsible.

In an emotional statement, a family member described the loss as devastating, saying Ybarra leaves behind a young son.

"We know his baby is gonna miss him so much," the relative said. "He was a daddy's boy."

The family said Ybarra was deeply involved in his son's life and that his death has left parents, relatives, and loved ones grieving. They said they want "justice" for his killing and believe someone knows what happened.

To help cover funeral expenses, family members are organizing community fundraisers this weekend. On Saturday, they plan to hold a car wash while selling food and offering haircuts near the intersection of Fourth Street and Frankford Avenue. On Sunday, another fundraiser is scheduled at El Santiago Bar near Clovis Road and Second Street.

Police have not released additional details about possible suspects, a motive, or evidence collected at the scene. Investigators continue to ask anyone with firsthand knowledge or relevant information to contact Crime Line as they work to identify those responsible for the fatal shooting.