HOUSTON — A west Houston pastor was killed during a burglary at his home early Saturday, authorities said.
Pedro Cantu, 62, was fatally shot when a 35-year-old roommate opened fire on an intruder, accidentally striking Cantu in the process. Houston Police said the burglary occurred just after midnight at Cantu’s South Kirkwood Road residence near Carriage Hill Drive in the Memorial area. Responding officers found the wounded pastor and the suspect, who were both taken to hospitals. Cantu was pronounced dead, while the suspect, identified as Rodney Dushaw Yoder, 44, was treated and later charged with burglary of a habitation.
Investigators said the armed resident and Cantu were home at the time, and the shooting occurred as the resident attempted to defend the house. It is unclear whether the break-in was random or targeted, and the investigation is ongoing.
Family and congregants remembered Cantu as a devoted and peaceful pastor who served at Amor & Restauracion Church for about 30 years. “He loved the church deeply. I never heard him speak ill of anyone,” his wife said. Their daughter, Perla Cantu, emphasized that her father did not own a firearm. Hundreds attended a prayer service Sunday to honor his life and legacy.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600.
