Erin Benavides, Former Texas Prosecutor at Center of NBA Scandal, Found Dead at 54

Erin Marie Benavides, a former Texas prosecutor whose name became widely known during a high-profile NBA relationship scandal in 2010, has died at the age of 54.

Benavides was found dead at a home in Port Aransas, Texas, on October 14, after police received a welfare concern. Officers entered the residence and discovered her with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to authorities.

Police have said preliminary findings do not indicate foul play, although the investigation remains active. The medical examiner is responsible for determining the official cause and manner of death.

Benavides had previously been married to former San Antonio Spurs player Brent Barry. The couple’s relationship became the subject of national attention in 2010, when reports emerged alleging that she had exchanged intimate messages with Barry’s teammate, Tony Parker, who was then married to actress Eva Longoria.

The controversy unfolded as both marriages came under strain. Longoria filed for divorce from Parker in November 2010, while Brent Barry also filed to end his marriage to Benavides. Both couples later divorced.

Benavides denied having an affair with Parker. The allegations surrounding the reported messages were never established as proof of a physical relationship.

Away from the headlines, Benavides built a career in law and child advocacy. She served as an assistant district attorney in Texas’ 38th Judicial District from January 2023 until August 2026, working in its anti-gang and border prosecution unit.

She also served as president and chief executive of the Youth Center of Texas from 2020 to 2022, an organization that supports young people affected by sex trafficking. Her work included involvement with child-welfare initiatives in Bexar County.

District Attorney Christina Mitchell remembered Benavides as a dedicated colleague who brought humor and encouragement to the office. Mitchell also spoke of her pride in her sons and the care she showed toward her work and community.

Her death has prompted renewed attention to a story that first made headlines more than 15 years ago. Friends and former colleagues have also highlighted the years she spent working with vulnerable children and families.