Days after the tragic death of Pastor Pedro Cantu, authorities in Houston say the fatal shooting inside his home remains under active investigation - and several critical details are still being examined.
Cantu, 62, lead pastor of Amor y Restauración (Love and Restoration) Church, was shot early Saturday morning at his residence on South Kirkwood Road. While police initially described the incident as an attempted defense against a suspected burglar, court documents and witness statements are now adding new layers to the case.
Here's what we know so far.
The Suspected Burglar Remains in Custody
According to court documents reviewed by multiple outlets, 44-year-old Rodney Dushaw Yoder allegedly broke the front door window of Cantu's home around 12:15 a.m.
Authorities say Yoder entered the residence shortly before gunfire erupted.
Yoder reportedly told police he heard a gunshot upon entering and saw Pastor Cantu already on the ground. He also claimed he saw another man inside the home holding a gun. According to his account, he grabbed Cantu's wife, allegedly believing it would prevent the gunman from shooting him. He was subsequently shot but survived without serious injury.
Yoder, who has reportedly struggled with mental illness, remains behind bars.
The Roommate's Account Under Review
Houston Police previously stated that Cantu's 35-year-old roommate told investigators the shooting was accidental.
According to HPD's initial release, the roommate said he was attempting to defend the home from the intruder when he fired his weapon, unintentionally striking Pastor Cantu.
However, officials have not released further details, and both the Harris County District Attorney's Office and the Houston Police Department have declined additional comment, citing the ongoing investigation.
Reports indicate that when questioned by police, the roommate requested an attorney.
At this time, no formal charges related to Cantu's death have been publicly announced.
Family Speaks Out During Emotional Service
As investigators work through the evidence, Pastor Cantu's family and congregation are left grieving.
During a recent worship service at Amor y Restauración Church, loved ones gathered to honor his life and ministry.
One of his daughters, Perla Cantu, clarified publicly that her father did not own a firearm.
His wife, Leticia Cantu, shared an emotional message with the congregation.
"My husband loved you all deeply," she said in Spanish. "He loved the church deeply. I never heard him speak ill of anyone. He loved you all sincerely."
The service reflected both heartbreak and faith - a community mourning the sudden loss of a pastor who had served faithfully for decades.
A Legacy of Ministry
Pedro Cantu and his wife moved to the United States from Mexico in 1990. A year later, they began hosting Bible studies in their small apartment, eventually founding Love and Restoration Church.
What began as small gatherings grew into a lasting ministry that impacted families across Houston.
Cantu also served as vice president of CMC Houston and was part of the Houston Pastors Confederation board.
In a statement, the coalition described him as "an example of faith, service, and love for community."
"We pray that the Lord grants them comfort, strength, and peace in this time of deep sorrow," the group added.
Questions Still Unanswered
While early statements suggested a defensive shooting during a home break-in, the timeline and circumstances remain under scrutiny.
Investigators have not clarified:
-
The exact sequence of gunfire
-
Whether body camera footage exists
-
If forensic findings align with the initial account
-
Whether additional charges may be considered
For now, officials continue reviewing evidence and witness testimony.
A Community Seeking Peace
The tragedy has shaken not only one family but an entire congregation.
Moments like this raise difficult questions about safety, responsibility, and the fragility of life. Yet even amid uncertainty, church members have emphasized faith and unity over speculation.
In times of confusion, Scripture calls believers to pursue truth while also extending grace. As the legal process unfolds, many are praying for clarity - and for justice - while remembering a pastor who dedicated his life to serving others.
For now, the investigation continues.
Courtesy: Reporting based on information from The local Houston media.
Related Article: Who Shot Pastor Pedro Cantu? Houston Church Leader Dies During Home Break-In
