Investigation continues in the murder of Michael Echaniz, family to establish scholarship fund

San Antonio, TX police say there is no new information in the case of former Front Royal resident Michael Echaniz, a 23-year-old San Antonio teacher who was killed outside his apartment complex Thursday, March 10.

Michael Echaniz at his 2020 Christendom College graduation. Photo courtesy of Christendom College.

A 2020 graduate of Christendom College, Echaniz was a fourth and fifth-grade teacher at Great Hearts Forest Heights, a charter school in San Antonio.

San Antonio police officers responded to the Eckert Heights Apartments around 7 a.m. and found the victim lying dead near his car, according to San Antonio Police Chief William McManus.  A witness reported seeing someone in a blue hoodie running away from the apartment complex after the shooting.

Great Hearts Forest Heights school released a statement, saying, “We are shocked and deeply saddened to have lost a beloved member of our school community. In his two years with us, Michael Echaniz faithfully served our students in and out of the classroom. He was a skilled teacher and generous soul who poured his time, talent, and energy into our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and students. Counselors are available on campus to support students and staff as we process this news. Police are continuing to investigate, and any additional questions should be directed to SAPD. He will be deeply missed.”

While attending Christendom College, Echaniz was “known for his sweet nature and deep devotion as a friend,” the college said in a statement. “He participated in plays and musicals at the college, including the musical Anything Goes, in the college’s swing and waltz dance competitions, and in the college’s debate society as well.”

He grew up in Front Royal, Virginia, and was the son of Christendom alumni John and Sharon (née Alessandro) Echaniz, the college stated.

Christendom College also stated that the Echaniz family plans to establish a memorial scholarship in Michael’s name.  Donations can be made here: In Memory of Michael Echaniz – Christendom College

San Antonio Police Department spokesman Nicolas Soliz wrote in an email Monday that the case is currently under investigation, but no additional information would be released at this time.