In Pasadena, Texas, a remarkable story unfolded that captivated the community. Alicia Butler, a 23-year-old single mother who had just moved to the Houston area, was in search of a reliable vehicle. She found Strawberry Road Auto Sales online and visited the used car lot on November 26 with the hope of driving away with a new ride. However, her encounter took an unexpected turn.

Assault and Arrest - A Turning Point

When the dealership received her $1,500 deposit, they gave her a receipt but no keys. Alicia left empty-handed and was unable to get her money back. But then, on Thursday, when KPRC 2's Gage Goulding and Photojournalist Oscar Chavez arrived to investigate, the car lot manager, David Estrada, assaulted them. This led to his arrest, and it was discovered that a warrant for his arrest had been filed just less than 24 hours earlier. Court documents revealed that he had scammed Fred Haas Nissan out of nearly $145,000. Meanwhile, a dozen lawsuits had been filed against Strawberry Road Auto Sales and its sister car lot, Koncept Motor Cars.

Waiting for Justice - The Long Wait

Alicia Butler recounted her conversation with Estrada, expressing her frustration. She wondered why it took so much for her to get her money back. She questioned why she had to go through the news instead of the dealership handling the situation promptly. It was a long and nerve-wracking wait until KPRC 2 started asking questions. Finally, the office manager called, eager to return her money. Alicia was overjoyed and couldn't wait to receive the check.

She said, "She was ready to give me my money. She was like, Please, can you send me the address of where I can send you your check?" This moment marked a turning point in her ordeal.

The Moment of Reconciliation - The Check Arrives

The office manager promised to overnight a check, and on Saturday, it arrived. Alicia wanted to open it with Gage Goulding from KPRC 2. As she held the check in her hand, a smile spread across her face. She said, "It feels like a victory. Like I finally accomplished this after waiting and just trying and crying. Honestly, crying and trying to figure out what I was going to do when all I had to do was call the KPRC News."

This was the moment she had been waiting for, the validation of her fight for justice. Alicia's story is not just about getting her money back but also about the perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.

The Battle Continues - Lawsuits and Complaints

While Alicia's fight for her money may be over, the battle isn't done yet. There are those who have filed lawsuits and even more who have filed complaints with the Better Business Bureau. They are all still fighting against the used car lot, determined to ensure that such incidents don't happen again.

Alicia said, "I want to make sure that they get closed out, because what can you all say? Y'all can't lie anymore." Her words reflect the resolve of those who have been affected by the dealership's actions.

KPRC 2 also spoke with an attorney representing the car lot and its owners, but they would not provide a comment. This only added to the mystery and complexity of the situation. Alicia's story serves as a reminder of the importance of holding businesses accountable and fighting for one's rights.