Burnet County Man Sentenced to 40 Years for Head-On Crash That Killed Horseshoe Bay Woman

BURNET COUNTY, Texas – A Burnet County man has been sentenced to 40 years in prison after a jury found him guilty of manslaughter in a fatal head-on crash that claimed the life of a Horseshoe Bay woman.

On Wednesday, Aug. 5, a Burnet County jury convicted Justin Roberson, 38, of Burnet, of manslaughter following a trial in the 424th Judicial District Court before Judge Evan Stubbs.

Head-On Crash Killed Woman Driving Home

Prosecutors presented evidence showing Roberson was driving over a hill in a no-passing zone on State Highway 71 when he crossed into oncoming traffic and struck another vehicle head-on.

The victim, Shannan Burnette, was driving home to Horseshoe Bay to have dinner with her husband when she was killed in the collision.

Jurors heard testimony from investigators with the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Burnet County Sheriff’s Office, as well as a medical expert, an eyewitness to the crash, and Burnette’s husband.

Prior Felony Convictions Increased Sentence

During the punishment phase of the trial, prosecutors introduced evidence showing Roberson had previous felony convictions for burglary of a habitation and assault of a family member. Those prior convictions enhanced the range of punishment available to the jury.

After hearing the evidence, jurors sentenced Roberson to 40 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Assistant District Attorneys Alicia Willoughby and Michael Walker prosecuted the case.

“My hope is that this sentence sends a message that selfish, reckless acts on our roads will not be tolerated by the community,” Willoughby said. “We all deserve to make it home to our loved ones for dinner.”

Burnet County District Attorney Perry Thomas said his office remains committed to prosecuting drivers whose reckless or intoxicated actions cause death or serious injury.

“This verdict demonstrates our commitment to work with our law enforcement partners to bring justice to those who hurt others by their unlawful actions,” Thomas said.