On the afternoon of September 12, the Midland County District Attorney's office announced the sentencing of 23-year-old Armando Barba to 15 years in prison for Failure to Stop and Render Aid, and 10 years for Tampering with Physical Evidence. The charges stem from a June 6, 2021, incident where Barba struck 23-year-old Theron Brown as he crossed Industrial Avenue after leaving a concert at the Rusty Bucket BBQ and Tavern in Midland, according to a statement issued by the district attorney’s office.
Barba fled the scene, but was arrested days later after police identified his vehicle through debris left at the scene and a Crime Stoppers tip. The jury, after hearing evidence, also imposed a $10,000 fine for each charge.
On the night of the incident, Brown was attempting to cross Industrial Avenue when Barba’s vehicle struck him, according to official reports. Brown later succumbed to his injuries. Investigators revealed that Barba and his friends had been drinking throughout the evening, although Barba's flight from the scene prevented the county from proving intoxication as a factor.
A public tip and police investigation led to the discovery of Barba’s hidden vehicle, where officials say efforts were made to conceal the crime by replacing damaged parts.
Barba, who had no prior criminal history, pled guilty to both charges at the start of the trial. Despite his eligibility for probation, the jury denied it, handing down a combined sentence of 15 and 10 years, with sentences running concurrently.
Barba must serve at least one-quarter of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole. The case was prosecuted by First Assistant District Attorney Tim Flathers and Assistant District Attorney Whitney Garnett, with Midland attorney Alvaro Martinez representing Barba. The trial was held in the 441st District Court and presided over by Judge Jeff Robnett.