Man Sentenced to 40 Years for Murder of Austin Woman

On Thursday, December 12, 2024, a Travis County jury convicted 23-year-old Manolo Gonzalez of Murder in the death of 22-year-old Elizabeth Nicole Lopez. The trial began with jury selection on Monday, December 9, 2024, and testimony began on the following day. After deliberating on Thursday, the jury found the defendant guilty of Murder, and on Friday, December 13, 2024, he was sentenced to 40 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

The case stems from an incident on January 24, 2023, when the Austin Police Department charged the man with Murder while he was in custody for a separate case. On April 11, 2023, he was indicted for the offense of Murder.

Assistant District Attorneys Rebekah Mata and Sam Henry led the prosecution, with support from Investigator Amy Altgilbers, Victim Counselor Raquel Pompey, Paralegal Hannah Joy, and Legal Secretary Daisy Mora Gomez. Austin Police Department Detective Israel Pina conducted the investigation into the case.

“We are grateful to our dedicated staff and law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly to hold the defendant accountable and seek justice for the victim’s family,” said Travis County District Attorney José Garza. “We hope this verdict continues to help the victim’s family with their healing process.”