Jimmy Friesenhahn, a Marine veteran left paralyzed after being shot while working as a security guard, remains hospitalized after complications from a blood clot. His family said the health setback could prevent him from testifying as planned in an upcoming Bexar County trial. The defendant, Wilmer Vladimir Ruiz Ortega, is accused of shooting Friesenhahn at a San Antonio sports bar in May 2025. Friesenhahn’s relatives continue to seek a full prosecution while describing the long-term impact of his injuries.
| Article Subheadings | |
|---|---|
| 1) | Health setback threatens planned testimony |
| 2) | Police account of the San Antonio shooting |
| 3) | Charges and immigration proceedings |
| 4) | Family questions prior court history |
| 5) | Injuries create lifelong consequences |
Health setback threatens planned testimony
Friesenhahn was expected to testify during the trial of Ortega in Bexar County, with jury selection scheduled to begin the following week, according to his sister, Becky Borjon. Borjon said Friesenhahn had spent three weeks in inpatient rehabilitation after surgery on August 28 before being hospitalized for at least a week because of complications involving a blood clot. The family said it still hopes he will be able to appear, but his medical condition may affect when or how he gives evidence.
“We encountered some medical setbacks, and he’s been hospitalized for a week now,” Borjon said.
Police account of the San Antonio shooting
The case stems from a May 4, 2025, incident at El Patio Sports Bar in San Antonio. Police said Friesenhahn, who was working as a security guard, saw a firearm in Ortega’s pocket and attempted to prevent him from entering the venue. A struggle followed, and Ortega allegedly fired multiple rounds.
Friesenhahn was struck twice in his bulletproof vest and once in the neck, according to the account described in the case. The neck wound left him paralyzed and unable to speak, requiring full-time medical care. The allegations remain subject to the criminal court process.
Charges and immigration proceedings
Ortega, a 29-year-old Honduran national, faces a charge of aggravated assault against a security officer and a charge related to illegal entry into the United States. He is also involved in federal immigration proceedings. The criminal case is being handled in Bexar County, where the upcoming proceedings are expected to begin with jury selection.
The family’s account has focused on the consequences of the shooting and on whether Friesenhahn will be medically able to participate. The Bexar County District Attorney’s Office did not provide a public comment on the case status in the account provided.
Family questions prior court history
Friesenhahn’s relatives have also raised questions about Ortega’s previous encounters with Texas authorities. Court records cited in the case show an October 2020 arrest for driving while intoxicated, an August 2023 arrest for an alleged probation violation, and two additional arrests for failing to appear in court, including one in November 2024.
Emmanuel Martinez, Friesenhahn’s brother-in-law, said Ortega’s last court appearance was in March 2025, roughly two months before the shooting. Borjon questioned why earlier arrests, missed appearances and active warrants did not result in Ortega being returned to Honduras. Her comments reflected the family’s view that existing court and immigration procedures should have been enforced, while not opposing immigration generally.
“This guy was arrested multiple times, released on bond, and never reported,” Borjon said.
Injuries create lifelong consequences
The family said Friesenhahn’s recovery is not expected to restore his previous life. His paralysis, inability to speak and need for continuous care have changed his daily circumstances permanently, according to Borjon. She said relatives are preparing for a lifelong effort to support him rather than expecting a conventional recovery.
Friesenhahn is a combat veteran who completed multiple overseas deployments. His relatives say they remain focused on seeing the case prosecuted to the fullest extent permitted by law, while also managing his medical needs and determining whether he can participate in the trial.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | Friesenhahn’s hospitalization may delay or complicate his planned testimony. |
| 2 | Police allege he was shot during a confrontation at a San Antonio sports bar. |
| 3 | Ortega faces aggravated assault and illegal-entry charges, along with federal immigration proceedings. |
| 4 | Relatives have questioned Ortega’s prior arrests and missed court appearances. |
Summary
The Bexar County case is moving toward jury selection while the alleged victim faces serious medical complications. Friesenhahn’s family says the shooting caused permanent paralysis and extensive care needs. The court will determine how the criminal proceedings proceed if his health prevents him from testifying as planned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jimmy Friesenhahn?
He is a Marine veteran and security guard who was allegedly shot at a San Antonio sports bar on May 4, 2025, leaving him paralyzed.
Who is accused in the shooting?
Wilmer Vladimir Ruiz Ortega, a 29-year-old Honduran national, is accused of the shooting and faces criminal and federal immigration proceedings.
Why could testimony be delayed?
Friesenhahn has been hospitalized after blood clot complications following surgery and rehabilitation, according to his family.