A self-defense claim is being investigated by Homicide Unit detectives following Saturday's 2:20 a.m. fatal shooting of Adrian Rivas-Romo, 23, during an argument with a pedicab driver over the cost of the fare on Rep. John Lewis Way South outside the BetMGM Sports Lounge at Bridgestone Arena.
The 21-year-old pedicab driver, Christopher Jones, remained at the scene after calling 911 and was detained once he identified himself as the shooter. His pistol was recovered by responding officers.
The investigation revealed Rivas-Romo and his friends were visiting from Memphis this weekend when they decided to utilize two pedicabs as transportation back to their hotel. During the ride from 2nd Avenue to Rep. John Lewis Way, Rivas-Romo's friend got into an argument with their pedicab driver that resulted in him stopping outside Bridgestone Arena. Jones, who was transporting Rivas-Romo, also stopped as both pedicabs were travelling the same route to get the group to their hotel.
Jones then forced the group to exit both pedicabs and refused to carry them any further. A physical altercation ensued when Jones claimed to have been punched in the back of the head by one of Rivas-Romo's friends.
Jones then retrieved his pistol and alleges Rivas-Romo came towards him quickly so he fired.
Rivas-Romo died at the hospital.
The investigation is continuing and detectives are in close contact with the District Attorney's Office concerning charging decisions.