Ramón Ayala Issues Statement Following $25 Million Lawsuit Naming Him and Son Ramón Ayala Jr.

Norteño icon Ramón Ayala has issued a public statement addressing the $25 million lawsuit recently filed in Hidalgo County that names him, his son Ramón Ayala Jr., his band Ramón Ayala y Sus Bravos del Norte, and the band’s corporate entity, Liram LLC, as defendants.

The lawsuit, filed February 17 by Houston attorney Tony Buzbee, was brought on behalf of a photographer and videographer identified as “John Doe #1.” The 13-page petition alleges that Ayala Jr. repeatedly sexually assaulted and harassed the plaintiff while he was working on tour documenting the elder Ayala during what had been promoted as his farewell run, first titled El Principio de un Final and later renamed Historia De Un Final.

The suit seeks more than $25 million in damages and outlines claims of assault and sexual assault, negligence and gross negligence, negligence by Ayala Sr. and Liram LLC, and ratification — alleging that leadership failed to intervene and thereby allowed the alleged misconduct to continue.

Allegations in the Lawsuit

According to court documents, the plaintiff — described as a McAllen-based professional photographer hired in September 2024 — claims he was subjected to repeated sexual harassment and assault aboard the tour bus and in the presence of band members and staff.

The petition details multiple alleged incidents, including one in August 2025 in which Ayala Jr. is accused of physically overpowering the plaintiff and engaging in non-consensual, sexually offensive physical contact. The lawsuit also alleges inappropriate touching on other occasions, routine exposure aboard the tour bus, and the creation of a hostile work environment.

Additionally, the filing claims Ayala Jr. used cocaine while on tour and includes references to photographs submitted as part of the petition.

While most allegations center on Ayala Jr., the lawsuit further alleges that Ramón Ayala, the band, and Liram LLC knew or should have known about the alleged behavior and failed to intervene, creating what the suit describes as a foreseeable risk.

As of earlier reporting, no response from the Ayala family had been included in court filings. That changed this week when Ramón Ayala released a written statement addressed to the public, media, and fans.

Ramón Ayala’s Statement

In his message, Ayala expressed gratitude for the support he has received and denied wrongdoing, suggesting the allegations are financially motivated.

“With the sole purpose of sharing my current situation to the extent that I legally can, I am writing this Press Release to express my gratitude for all the displays of support and, above all, the respect shown to my Family, my Staff, and the name of Ramón Ayala.

Yesterday, the media reported—as is their job—news that deeply hurts my musical group, my fans, and my Family. We live in a world where freedom of expression is for everyone; unfortunately, in an eagerness to obtain attention, recognition, or financial compensation, some people—without foundation—attempt to take advantage and stain the legacy of an artist who came from nothing with humility, effort, and sacrifice.

Ramón Ayala has dedicated himself to working tirelessly, and even at 80 years old, I continue to put bread on my family’s table with honesty and clean work, thanks to my loyal audience of more than 60 years.

Due to legal matters, I cannot and should not give interviews at this time; our team of lawyers is working to clarify the facts, and God will be with all of us. To my detractors: as the provider for my home and a Father, I wish Peace in your hearts, because those who act unhealthily for financial gain at the cost of others’ pain are in great need of God’s Love.

I thank all my dear fans and all my friends in the media who have always supported me, and I trust that the competent authorities will clarify the facts with justice and truth.

God always with us…
Your friend,
Ramón Ayala”

Case Continues in Hidalgo County

The case remains pending in Hidalgo County State Court in the Rio Grande Valley. Attorney Tony Buzbee previously described the allegations as “the most egregious and outrageous” he has encountered in his practice.

At this stage, the claims outlined in the lawsuit are allegations, and no court findings have been made.

Tejano Nation will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.

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