UPDATE: A 19-year-old man has been charged with first-degree murder following a deadly shooting during an alleged drug deal in Del Valle, Texas. The incident occurred on January 7, 2023, and has sent shockwaves through the local community.
According to the Travis County Sheriff’s Office, Nicholas Cole Thomas and an acquaintance arranged to meet two other men at a gas station located in the 7200 block of Elroy Road for the purchase of a THC vape cartridge. During this meeting, Thomas reportedly attempted to rob the men while seated in the back of their vehicle, leading to a violent confrontation.
Authorities report that a gun was drawn, resulting in multiple gunshots fired from all parties involved. Deputies responded to the scene shortly after midnight, where they discovered Thomas suffering from gunshot wounds. He was immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Tragically, the encounter resulted in the death of Ashwym Basil, also aged 19. He was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead at 12:55 a.m.. The escalating violence highlights the risks involved in illicit drug transactions and the tragic outcomes that can arise.
Thomas was arrested shortly after the incident and remains in custody as the investigation continues. The community is grappling with the aftermath of this violent event, raising concerns about safety and the impact of drug-related crime in the area.
Local officials urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. More updates will follow as the investigation unfolds, and authorities continue to seek answers regarding the circumstances surrounding this tragic shooting.
Stay tuned for further developments on this breaking story, as it raises critical questions about safety and crime in our communities.
