Paralyzed Marine Veteran's Testimony at Alleged Shooter's Trial May Be Delayed by Health Complications

Jimmy Friesenhahn, a combat veteran who has completed multiple overseas deployments, has been hospitalized for over a week due to complications from a blood clot. This health setback occurred after a surgery on August 28, according to his sister, Becky Borjon.

"We encountered some medical setbacks, and he's been hospitalized for a week now," Borjon stated. "Prior to that, he was in inpatient rehab for three weeks following a surgery he had on Aug. 28, and things just kind of took a turn."

Friesenhahn was anticipated to provide testimony in a Bexar County courtroom during the upcoming trial of Wilmer Vladimir Ruiz Ortega, 29, a Honduran national accused of the shooting.

"Trial is scheduled to begin next week on the 20th," Borjon explained. "I believe they will start with jury selection and go from there. Jimmy was expected to appear and testify on his own behalf, and we are still hoping he will be able to do that."

The Shooting Incident

Ortega was apprehended following the alleged shooting of Friesenhahn at El Patio Sports Bar in San Antonio on May 4, 2025. Authorities reported that Friesenhahn, acting as a security officer, observed a firearm in Ortega’s pocket and attempted to prevent him from entering the establishment. A struggle ensued, during which Ortega allegedly discharged multiple rounds.

Friesenhahn sustained two bullet impacts to his bulletproof vest and one to his neck. The neck wound resulted in his paralysis, rendering him unable to speak and requiring continuous medical care.

Ortega faces charges of aggravated assault against a security officer and illegal entry into the United States. He is also involved in federal immigration proceedings.

Family Questions Prior Criminal Record

The shooting prompted significant outrage from Friesenhahn’s family, who have highlighted Ortega’s extensive prior criminal history within Texas. Court documents indicate Ortega was arrested for driving while intoxicated in October 2020. This was followed by an August 2023 arrest for violating probation.

He was arrested on two additional occasions for failing to appear in court, including an arrest in November 2024.

"His last court appearance was in March 2025, and Jimmy was shot on May 4, 2025," said Emmanuel Martinez, Friesenhahn’s brother-in-law. "At that point, the DA’s office should have complied with removal orders and turned him over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement."

Borjon echoed these concerns, questioning why Ortega remained at liberty despite numerous offenses.

"I’m not opposed to immigration, but there is a process set in place for a reason," Borjon stated. "This guy was arrested multiple times, released on bond and never reported. He had active warrants for repeated offenses while missing court appearances. Those warrants should have been acted upon, and maybe we wouldn’t be here today. This guy should have been returned to his country."

A Lifelong Fight Ahead

Friesenhahn’s family remains committed to seeing the case fully prosecuted under the law, while simultaneously confronting the profound reality of his life-altering injuries.

"Unfortunately, we don’t see this as a road to recovery because there is no recovering from an injury like this. We see it as the beginning of a lifelong fight," Borjon shared. "My brother will never walk again. He will never be able to get married or raise a family."