A man is dead following a shooting at an apartment complex Wednesday night in Garland, police say.[[505127121,R]]
The shooting was reported at about 11:45 p.m. at the Pecan Knoll Apartments along the 1000 block of East Centerville Road, police said.
"Something needs to be done about these apartments," said the victim's sister, Ashley Wicker. "The crime is horrible."
According to a police spokesman, a witness told responding officers the victim, identified by police as 29-year-old Clifford Wayne Wicker, Jr., was alerted by a neighbor that someone was breaking into his work truck. Gunfire was heard after Wicker went outside to confront the suspect, police said.
"It's a horrible crime," said Garland Police Lt. Pedro Barineau. "This is a crime in which property was the target and it ultimately turns into someone losing their life."
Officers found Wicker wounded and unconscious in the parking lot, where he was later pronounced deceased, police said.
"He was my best friend," said Wicker's cousin, Ernest Wicker. "I still can't believe it. It hurts. My heart hurts. I'm sure I'm going to be crying a lot tonight."
Investigators were interviewing witnesses and checking for any surveillance video for a description of the gunman.
"My brother did not deserve this at all," Ashley Wicker said through tears. "You could have just took the tools and ran. You didn't have to kill my brother."
Police said it was possible the burglar tried to break into other vehicles around the area. Officers asked anyone who's noticed their car was vandalized should call police because there may be clues that could help investigators identify the suspect in the shooting.
Police are looking for a 'vehicle of interest' seen leaving the area of the murder scene. It's described as a gold or tan 4-door passenger car, possibly a Crown Victoria.
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The Wicker family set up a GoFundMe page to help pay for funeral expenses.
In an email, a representative for Globus Management Group, where Wicker worked said his former co-workers are distraught.
"CJ Wicker was a dedicated and hardworking man. His wife and children were his greatest joy. All of us at Globus are devastated by this tragedy, and we continue to support CJ’s family," a statement read.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this most difficult time."
Callers who wish to remain anonymous may submit tips to Garland Crime Stoppers at: 972-272-TIPS (8477) or www.garlandcrimestoppers.org
A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for any information leading to an arrest and indictment of the suspect(s) responsible for the murder of Clifford Wayne Wicker.
There's also a GoFundMe set up to help the victim's family. https://www.gofundme.com/fxmx6x-20000
Check back for the latest on this developing story. As details unfold, elements of this story may change.
