Arrest made in killing of woman, 19

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The man suspected in the July 11 shooting death of 19-year-old Ashley Perez was arrested Wednesday.

Javier Rodriguez, 24, was found by Austin police around 10 a.m. at an apartment in South Austin. He was initially charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. But late last week, police said they believed that he killed Perez in a dispute over money.

According to police, Rodriguez  was confronted by Perez at his home in the 3600 block of Govalle Avenue regarding money she believed he owed her. Police said  Perez had a gun, but so did Rodriguez.

During the exchange, Rodriguez shot and killed Perez, who died at the hospital about five hours after the shooting.

According to an arrest warrant affidavit, Rodriguez had been convicted of aggravated robbery in 2008 and was sentenced to seven years probation. The probation was revoked a a little more than a year later and was sent to prison for an unspecified time.

The victim's history

According to Ashley's mother, Yvonne Chapa, Perez graduated from American YouthWorks in 2010 -- a school that helps troubled teens get back on the right track.

Her mother does not deny the fact her daughter had some struggles. Online records show Perez faced her second drunk driving conviction last summer at the age of 18.

Perez's family says they are grateful for the positive programs she was a part of and want to thank those who played a role in trying to help her.

She was the youngest of three children and leaves behind two older brothers.