Bexar County jury hears case against El Volcan owner Mariano Rendon for aggravated assault

In a significant court session on May 7, 2025, Judge Stephanie Boyd presided over the case of the State of Texas versus Mariano Rendon, the owner of El Volcan, a bar in Bexar County. The proceedings began with the jury being sworn in, setting the stage for a trial centered on allegations of aggravated assault causing serious bodily injury.

The case stems from an incident that occurred on August 19, 2023, during a birthday celebration for Pablo Rodriguez. According to the prosecution, the night took a violent turn when security personnel at El Volcan confronted Rodriguez about discarding a beer bottle as the bar was closing. The prosecution claims that after Rodriguez disposed of his drink, tensions escalated, leading to an altercation where Rendon allegedly intervened by kneeing Rodriguez in the side, resulting in severe intestinal injuries that required two surgeries.

The prosecution's opening statement painted a vivid picture of the events leading up to the incident, emphasizing the excessive force used by Rendon and the lasting impact on Rodriguez's life. They argued that the actions taken by Rendon were not only unnecessary but also reckless, urging the jury to find him guilty based on the evidence presented.

In contrast, the defense indicated that the jury would hear differing accounts of the events that unfolded that night. They highlighted the chaotic atmosphere typical of last call at bars, suggesting that the situation may have been misinterpreted and that the actions taken were in response to a volatile environment.

As the trial progresses, the implications of this case extend beyond the courtroom, touching on issues of bar safety, the responsibilities of business owners, and the consequences of violence in social settings. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, particularly regarding the use of force by bar staff and owners. The court will continue to hear evidence and witness testimonies in the coming days, as both sides prepare to present their cases fully.