Car lot employee’s wife remembers his life after tragic death

SAN ANTONIO – An illegal dumping incident turned deadly when a suspect led to a chase, a shooting, and a fatal crash, but justice has prevailed as the suspect is now behind bars.

Sheriff Javier Salazar announced that John Yeates, 39, was apprehended at his residence on Tuesday morning without resistance. He is now facing a felony charge for deadly conduct.

The illegal dumping transpired at a car lot located off U.S. Highway 181 and Loop 1604. Employees of the car lot confronted the suspects, triggering a pursuit.

Tragically, George Gomez, 36, one of the employees involved in the chase, lost his life in a crash.

“I refused to believe it; it’s like a nightmare you can’t wake up from,” expressed Gomez’s wife, who chose to remain anonymous.

Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar revealed that Yeates and another individual were caught illegally dumping at the car lot on September 11.

Salazar detailed that during the pursuit, shots were exchanged, with Gomez firing at the suspects’ truck. Eventually, Gomez ceased the pursuit and while returning to the car lot, he tragically crashed.

When found, Gomez’s vehicle was discovered under trees, with evidence pointing towards a heart attack rather than gunshot wounds as the cause of his demise.

“Yes, we all have the right to defend ourselves and our property, but… taking the law into your own hands, chasing someone down, and firing shots at them is certainly not the recommended course of conduct in a case like this,” cautioned Salazar.

According to the BCSO, Yeates has a history of criminal activities, including child endangerment.

Yet to be confirmed are potential illegal dumping charges against Yeates and the unidentified driver. The driver has been taken into custody for further questioning.

“George, we love you, we miss you. You were the best father any of these boys could have,” lamented Gomez’s wife, as they mourn the loss of a beloved husband and father.