The quiet town of Allentown, near Lufkin in Texas, was shaken by a tragic shooting on the night of Wednesday, May 7, 2025. Around 11:15 PM, Philip Hunter Gersbach, 26, allegedly shot Jeffery Arriola, leading to his death.
Gersbach was arrested and charged with murder but was released just one day later after posting a $15,000 bond—a decision that sparked anger and frustration in the local community.
As emotions remain high, the Texas Rangers have now stepped in to help investigate the case, hoping to rebuild trust and bring clarity to the situation.
Shooting in Allentown: What Happened?
According to reports, the fatal shooting occurred outside a home in Allentown, located near the city of Lufkin in Angelina County. The victim, Jeffery Arriola, died from his injuries shortly after the incident. Gersbach was taken into custody the same night and charged with murder.
However, what sparked public outrage was the fact that Gersbach was released the next day on bond. Local residents expressed their concern and anger across social media, questioning the decision and demanding a deeper investigation.
Jeffery Arriola Laid to Rest
On Friday, May 16, 2025, family and friends gathered at Moral Cemetery in Nacogdoches County to say their final goodbyes to Jeffery Arriola. The funeral took place at 10 AM and was marked by grief, prayer, and support from the local community. Though the burial brought some emotional closure, questions surrounding the case still remain.
Texas Rangers Join the Investigation
To ensure a fair and impartial inquiry, Sheriff Tom Selman has officially requested the assistance of the Texas Rangers. Known for handling violent crimes and public corruption cases in Texas, the Rangers are now actively investigating the shooting.
One of the main concerns is the claim of self-defense made in connection to the case. The sheriff wants to ensure that this claim is properly examined, and that no bias affects the outcome of the investigation. According to the Lufkin Daily News, both families involved can now have more confidence that the case is being handled professionally and thoroughly.
Quick Movement Towards a Grand Jury
Sheriff Selman has confirmed that the case will be moved to a grand jury quickly. This step is crucial to determine whether the evidence supports a full trial. By acting fast and involving trusted agencies like the Texas Rangers, local authorities are trying to calm tensions and prove that justice is being taken seriously.
The Sheriff’s Office and the Texas Rangers have worked together many times in the past, and their joint efforts are seen as a strong signal that the truth will come out.