Del Valle Tragedy: Teens charged in Fatal Car theft Attempt
AUSTIN, Texas – The community of Del Valle is reeling after a tragic incident that has resulted in capital murder charges for two juveniles. A 12-year-old and a 13-year-old are accused in connection with the death of a 20-year-old man who was attempting to recover his family’s stolen vehicle.
The Incident Unfolds
The Austin Police Department (APD) reported that the sequence of events began in the early hours of May 3, 2025. A family in the Sun Chase Neighborhood placed a 911 call to report their car had been stolen from their driveway. Just under half an hour later,at approximately 3:21 a.m., another emergency call came in, this time reporting a person struck by a vehicle near the intersection of Ross Road and Thome Valley Drive, close to Del Valle Elementary School.
Did You Know?
Capital murder charges in Texas carry severe penalties, including life in prison without parole for juveniles.The decision to charge juveniles as adults is complex and depends on various factors, including the severity of the crime and the juvenile’s criminal history.
The Victim: Anthony Salas
Investigators believe that Anthony Salas, 20, was the victim of a violent confrontation. He was allegedly shot and then struck by a vehicle as he tried to retrieve his family’s stolen car near the intersection. The APD confirmed that Salas died as an inevitable result of the injuries sustained during the incident.
Capital Murder Charges Filed
The two juvenile suspects are facing serious charges. The Austin Police Department stated that both are charged with capital murder by terror threat
over the May 3 incident.
Pro Tip: Vehicle Theft Prevention
- Always lock your car doors and roll up windows.
- Park in well-lit areas.
- Consider installing an alarm system or a GPS tracking device.
- Never leave valuables in plain sight.
A Pattern of Burglaries
Further examination revealed a disturbing pattern. Police said the people were seen on multiple cameras burglarizing multiple vehicles throughout South and east Austin on Friday night into Saturday morning.
This suggests the suspects may have been involved in a string of criminal activities leading up to the fatal confrontation.
Austin’s 23rd Homicide
This tragic event marks a grim milestone for the city. The incident is officially being investigated as Austin’s 23rd homicide of 2025.
