Texas prosecutor drops death penalty for Walmart shooter Crusius

Texas prosecutors announced they will not pursue the death penalty against Patrick Crusius, the gunman responsible for the 2019 mass shooting at an El Paso Walmart that killed 23 people and injured 22 others. El Paso District Attorney James Montoya stated the decision was made after discussions with victims' families, most of whom wanted a swift resolution to the case, preferring a life sentence without parole over prolonged legal battles. Crusius, who drove from North Texas to commit the racially motivated attack, is expected to plead guilty to state charges on April 21, following his previous guilty plea to federal charges that resulted in 90 consecutive life terms. Montoya emphasized that this decision does not reflect a lack of evidence or his personal beliefs about capital punishment but aims to provide closure for the affected families. The case had faced significant delays, and this plea deal will allow the community to move forward without further hearings or appeals. Crusius had admitted to targeting individuals based on their Hispanic origin, motivated by a belief in an 'invasion' of immigrants.