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Homeowner Charged with Murder After Fatal Home Invasion

1/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Joel Adrian Florez, 43, is charged with murder after a late-night home invasion in Big Spring, Texas, that left Phillip Samuel Lozano Jr., 36, dead.
Florez shot Lozano, who had forced entry into Florez's home and was armed.
Texas law allows homeowners to use deadly force under Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine.
Authorities have not disclosed any prior relationship between Florez and Lozano.
Florez is held at the Howard County Detention Center.

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Story summary

Joel Adrian Florez, 43, is charged with murder after a late-night home invasion in Big Spring, Texas, that left Phillip Samuel Lozano Jr., 36, dead.
Florez shot Lozano, who had forced entry into Florez's home and was armed.
Texas law allows homeowners to use deadly force under Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine.
Authorities have not disclosed any prior relationship between Florez and Lozano.
Florez is held at the Howard County Detention Center.