Gunman Takes Plead Deal in Drug-Fueled Assault Last Summer

SAN ANGELO— In a case involving a San Angelo man exhibiting alarming behavior, Johnny Lopez Jr., 41, hailing from Beeville, Texas, has opted for a plea deal related to an incident marked by drug-induced paranoia.

Lopez agreed to the plea deal, facing charges of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.

Court documents reveal that on July 25, 2023, the victim, engaged in work on a property in the 8000 block of North US Highway 67, witnessed Lopez, the alleged assailant, entering his pickup and retrieving a Glock 26 pistol from the center console. Lopez proceeded to point the weapon at the victim, prompting a hasty retreat by the latter, fearing an imminent threat.

Fortunately, another worker successfully engaged Lopez in conversation, persuading him to lower the firearm. Subsequently, Lopez fled towards San Angelo. Responding to a description of the suspect, authorities located him walking westbound on the shoulder of Highway 67. His communication was impaired, and he exhibited signs indicative of potential drug-induced paranoia.

The victim expressed genuine concern for his life, given his awareness that the gun wielded by Lopez was loaded.

Lopez faced indictment in September 2023, and in a plea deal agreement, he was handed a five-year sentence in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The charges included one count of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and another five years for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon. Notably, the sentences will run concurrently.