Fatal Early-Morning Shooting in Ector County Leaves 24-Year-Old Marcos Criddle Dead; Suspect Anthony Bernardino Cortez Manarite Arrested as Investigators Probe Circumstances of Flint Avenue Incident in Odessa, Texas”
Ector County, TX – Tragedy struck the Odessa community in Ector County early Tuesday morning, when a shooting in the 3500 block of Flint Avenue claimed the life of 24-year-old Marcos Criddle. Authorities quickly apprehended 27-year-old Anthony Bernardino Cortez Manarite, who is now in custody and under investigation. The shocking event has rattled local residents, raising questions about safety and the circumstances surrounding this violent incident.
According to the Ector County Sheriff’s Office (ECSO), deputies responded to a call at approximately 5:24 a.m. regarding a reported gunshot victim. Upon arrival, officers found Criddle suffering from a critical gunshot wound. First responders transported him to Medical Center Hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival, marking another loss for the Odessa community.
ECSO officials reported that the suspect, Manarite, was detained at the scene. A firearm believed to be the weapon used in the shooting was recovered, and in a subsequent interview with detectives, Manarite reportedly admitted to shooting Criddle. Despite the quick apprehension, ECSO remains actively involved in a comprehensive investigation to understand the motive and full context of the incident.
This tragic occurrence adds to a growing number of violent incidents that have shocked the community and left residents and authorities seeking answers. Below is an in-depth examination of what is known so far, the backgrounds of those involved, the context of rising crime in the area, and a review of the impact this event has had on the community.
The Incident: What Happened on Flint Avenue?
The timeline of events began in the early hours of Tuesday, November 5, 2024, when ECSO dispatch received a distress call from a resident in the 3500 block of Flint Avenue. The caller, whose identity has not been disclosed, reported hearing gunfire and, upon further inspection, noticed a man lying motionless on the ground.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered Criddle with a gunshot wound. Medical responders attempted to stabilize him and transported him to Medical Center Hospital, where he was declared dead shortly after. The victim’s family has since been notified, and they are mourning the sudden and tragic loss of their loved one.
Meanwhile, law enforcement officers secured the scene and canvassed the area to collect potential evidence. Witnesses reported seeing a man—later identified as Manarite—near the scene, acting in a manner that prompted suspicion. Officers detained him on the spot for questioning. During a subsequent interview, Manarite reportedly admitted to firing the shot that killed Criddle. Detectives have not yet disclosed a specific motive for the shooting, and further investigations are underway.
Who Was Marcos Criddle?
Marcos Criddle, a 24-year-old resident of Odessa, was known in his community for his friendly nature and willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need. Described by those close to him as compassionate and dedicated, Criddle had deep roots in Odessa, where he attended local schools and was involved in various community activities. His family and friends have been left devastated by the loss, with several expressing their grief and disbelief on social media.
“He was the kind of person who could light up any room,” one friend shared. “Marcos had big dreams, and he worked hard. He didn’t deserve this.” His sudden death has left a void in the lives of those who knew him and has prompted an outpouring of support for his family.
Criddle’s background was one that represented hope and promise. He had recently been working toward starting his own business in the construction sector, and friends say he had been on a positive path, focused on building a stable future. His untimely death has stirred deep emotions across the community, where residents are grappling with the reality of losing yet another young life to violence.
Suspect in Custody: Who Is Anthony Bernardino Cortez Manarite?
The suspect, Anthony Bernardino Cortez Manarite, aged 27, has a past that includes various brushes with the law, although the extent and nature of his record remain under investigation. Neighbors and community members have mixed reactions to Manarite’s arrest. Some describe him as troubled and withdrawn, while others suggest he kept to himself without causing much commotion in the neighborhood.
Manarite’s motivations for the shooting remain unclear, and investigators are examining multiple potential motives, including any personal or prior disputes with Criddle. His admission to the shooting has facilitated parts of the investigation, but law enforcement is cautious about releasing further details at this early stage, especially given the sensitive nature of the case.
Rising Crime Rates and Community Concerns in Odessa
The incident has also highlighted ongoing concerns about crime in Odessa and Ector County at large. Crime rates in the region have seen a noticeable increase over the past few years, particularly in cases involving violent offenses. Local authorities have attributed some of this uptick to socio-economic factors, an increase in drug-related activity, and a lack of resources for law enforcement.
Community leaders have frequently spoken out about the need for greater preventive measures, community programs, and mental health resources to mitigate factors that often lead to violent behavior. This latest incident has reignited the conversation, with residents expressing fears over safety in the neighborhood. Flint Avenue, typically known as a quiet residential area, has become the unexpected center of tragedy, leaving residents shaken and questioning the security of their surroundings.
Law Enforcement Response and Next Steps in the Investigation
The ECSO has deployed additional resources to ensure that the investigation proceeds as thoroughly and quickly as possible. This includes forensic analysis of the recovered weapon, examination of possible digital evidence, and interviews with witnesses who may have seen or heard interactions between Criddle and Manarite before the shooting. Authorities are also exploring any connections or prior interactions between the two men that could shed light on the incident.
Additionally, ECSO has encouraged members of the public to come forward with any information that may assist in understanding the events leading up to the shooting. Community involvement is often critical in such investigations, as residents may have observed or overheard details that could provide valuable insight.
As part of its ongoing efforts, the ECSO has also begun coordinating with local mental health services, community organizations, and city officials to address growing concerns around public safety. This approach aims to create a more comprehensive support system for both victims’ families and those at risk of becoming involved in criminal activity.
Community Response: Grieving, Reflecting, and Seeking Change
In the wake of this incident, the Odessa community has responded with an outpouring of support for Criddle’s family. Friends, neighbors, and even strangers have set up a makeshift memorial at the site of the shooting, where flowers, candles, and messages of condolence continue to appear. This spontaneous show of solidarity has highlighted the community’s resilience, even as they grapple with feelings of fear and vulnerability.
Several community leaders have used this incident as an opportunity to call for greater unity and collective action against violence. Plans are underway for a vigil to be held in Criddle’s memory, where members of the community can gather to reflect, mourn, and discuss ways to prevent future tragedies. Organizers hope that such gatherings will spark a renewed commitment to building a safer and more supportive environment for all residents.
A Community in Transition: Navigating Change in Odessa
As Odessa continues to grow, incidents like the shooting on Flint Avenue raise important questions about the city’s future. With a population boom driven by the oil and gas industry and other economic factors, the city has experienced significant demographic and socio-economic shifts. While this growth has brought many positive changes, it has also introduced challenges, including strains on public infrastructure, housing, and law enforcement capabilities.
Ector County officials are acutely aware of these challenges, and discussions about increasing funding for local police, expanding community programs, and providing additional resources for mental health services have been ongoing. However, such initiatives require time, funding, and coordinated efforts among various stakeholders, which are often difficult to achieve amid rapidly changing circumstances.
The shooting on Flint Avenue serves as a stark reminder of the work that remains to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. For many, the hope is that this tragedy will catalyze lasting change, leading to a more unified and proactive approach to community safety.
Looking Forward: A Path Toward Healing and Action
As Ector County and Odessa residents continue to process this latest tragedy, there is a shared sense of determination to honor Marcos Criddle’s memory by working towards a safer future. Whether through increased community engagement, policy changes, or enhanced support networks, the people of Odessa are united in their desire to prevent future acts of violence.
