Houston Heights bar owner remembers community after his death

HOUSTON – The community is coming together to support the family of Steve “BJ” Rodriquez. The bar owner tragically died on Sunday when he was shot outside his establishment.

The Houston Police Department said the incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. at 2727 North Freeway. Another man was critically injured in the shooting.

After the heartache, family and friends of the late business owner turn their grief into action. Relatives held a fundraiser outside Tequila B's bar to remember the entrepreneur.

ORIGINAL STORY: Houston Heights bar owner killed, employee shot in brawl outside

“We are just here to raise money. Everything was unexpected, you know, and we're just trying to get through it and be there for the family,” said Mari Cruz Reyes, BJ's aunt.

The purpose of the gathering is to not only celebrate BJ's life, but also to raise funds to support his family during this difficult time.

“He was very loved. He was very well known. He was always willing to help when people were going through something. People needed services for their families. He was there,” said Marissa Rodriquez, BJ’s daughter.

BJ's hard work and entrepreneurial spirit lives on at Tequila B's, the bar just off the North Freeway.

“He was definitely a good businessman and he could make something out of nothing,” Rodriquez said.

“Very funny person. Very positive person. He believed in God very strongly,” said Gaby Tovar, a close friend.

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BJ leaves behind four children, three daughters and a son. His family and friends said he may be gone, but he will never be forgotten.

“Pray for us. Keep his sister and his daughter and everyone who loved him. He was loved by many,” Reyes Cruz said.

All proceeds from the event will go towards BJ's funeral expenses and his family's upkeep.