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Trial underway for man accused of fatally shooting McAllen Freemason

Trial underway for man accused of fatally shooting McAllen Freemason
1 hour 9 minutes 58 seconds ago Tuesday, August 04 2026 Aug 4, 2026 August 04, 2026 2:22 PM August 04, 2026 in News - Local
Source: KRGV

The trial is underway for the man accused of killing a Freemason.

Julio Diaz is accused of fatally shooting Robert Wise outside the McAllen Masonic Lodge on July 10, 2023. 

Diaz's attorney asked once again for the trial to be postponed, but the judge denied the request, saying he's had ample time to be ready. The defense also filed a running objection.

Prosecutors told jurors they believe Julio Diaz targeted Robert Wise out of hatred for Freemasons and "wanted blood."

RELATED STORY: Hidalgo County judge shuts down attempts to delay McAllen Masonic Lodge murder trial

Two McAllen arson investigators also testified about their investigation into a 2022 fire at the lodge, a year before Wise was killed. Jurors saw surveillance video and evidence tied to the fire.

Ruben Elizondo, the Freemason who found Wise shot in the street outside the lodge, also testified at the trial. He said free masons have been the subject of considerable propaganda and persecution.

The defense objected to much of the evidence.

A Channel 5 News team is inside the courtroom. Tune into our later newscasts for continuing coverage.

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