An Austin driver sentenced to 80 years in prison for killing a 14-year-old pedestrian in Round Rock

An Austin man who ran over and killed a 14-year-old boy in Round Rock while driving a stolen car in 2022 has been sentenced to 80 years in prison, officials said. A Williamson County jury found 28-year-old Leandro Brito-Martinez guilty of Wednesday’s murder of Tobias “Victor” Soto.

The incident occurred on July 31, 2022, after Round Rock police received information through the law enforcement camera system of a stolen vehicle traveling west on Gattis School Road, the Williamson County District Attorney’s Office said in a news release.

Officers found the vehicle in the La Frontera area, activated their emergency lights and attempted to stop the driver, later identified as Brito-Martinez, the release said. The release said Brito-Martinez was traveling at nearly 100 mph and weaving through traffic on Louis Henna Boulevard.

“Despite Round Rock Police’s efforts to disengage, the vehicle ran a red light, struck another car in the intersection, and then struck and killed 14-year-old Tobias Soto, who was walking in the intersection,” officials said. .

More: ‘I can’t imagine life without him’: Round Rock mom laments death of son Victor Soto

Brito-Martinez fled on foot but was later arrested by Round Rock police, the release said. He said he saw police behind him before they tried to stop him and that he “intended to flee regardless of police actions,” the release said. He said the entire incident lasted seconds and covered less than a quarter of a mile.

Officials said Tobias’ mother, who lived in a nearby apartment complex, had not heard from her son, who was visiting a friend. According to the release, his phone showed him at the intersection of Louis Henna Drive and Texas 45. “As she approached the intersection, she observed first responders and was told of the dire consequences of Brito-Martinez’s actions,” the release said.

More: Officials say a driver fleeing Round Rock police killed a 14-year-old pedestrian

His mother said Soto would be a freshman at Round Rock High School, where he wanted to play football.

Brito-Martinez has a lengthy arrest history, including convictions for unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, unlawful use of a motor vehicle and resisting arrest. At the time of the murder, Brito-Martinez was charged with fleeing from a police officer, evading or resisting arrest and assaulting a public officer.

“Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Tobias’ mother and family, as well as all the first responders and witnesses to this horrific event,” said District Attorney Shawn Dick. “Every case involving the death of a child takes an immeasurable toll. This conviction is a testament to the tireless efforts of our law enforcement and prosecutors. Brito-Martinez’s actions led to a senseless tragedy, and today’s verdict ensures he is held accountable. “My office continues to strive to seek justice for the victims and their families.”

This article originally appeared on the Austin American-Statesman: Austin man sentenced to 80 years in prison for murder of Round Rock teenager