MERCEDES, Texas — The Mercedes community is grieving the tragic loss of an elderly couple found dead inside their vehicle at their home on 10th Street and Rio Rico Road. Authorities have identified the victims as 77-year-old Rosalinda Garcia and her husband, 68-year-old Joel Garcia.
Police say the couple was discovered around 10:30 a.m. after family members, unable to reach them, grew concerned and went to check on their home. Officers arrived to a heartbreaking scene — Rosalinda and Joel were found inside their vehicle in the garage, deceased and holding hands.
Lt. Jesus Rodriguez of the Mercedes Police Department said that the couple’s bodies were already in a state of decomposition. Investigators believe carbon monoxide exposure may have played a role in their deaths, though the vehicle was turned off when officers arrived.
The discovery was made by Rosalinda’s sister, who had grown worried after Rosalinda failed to show up at the home of a family member she regularly cared for. Upon arriving at the residence, she made the devastating find and contacted authorities.
Police also confirmed that narcotics were discovered inside the vehicle. While the presence of drugs and the potential role of carbon monoxide remain under investigation, officials emphasized that there were no signs of foul play. Autopsies and toxicology reports have been ordered to determine the couple’s official cause of death.
The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office is assisting Mercedes Police in the ongoing investigation.
Neighbors described the Garcias as kind, family-oriented, and devoted to one another. The detail that they were found hand in hand has left the community shaken, a tragic but tender reminder of their lifelong bond.
Lt. Rodriguez urged patience as investigators await results:
“Right now, we are still gathering information. The autopsy results will help provide clearer answers about what happened inside that garage.”
Authorities are expected to release further details in the coming days. For now, the deaths of Rosalinda and Joel Garcia remain under investigation, as family, friends, and neighbors mourn the heartbreaking loss.