Jury Selection Begins in Capital Murder Trial in San Angelo

SAN ANGELO, TX — Jury selection began Friday in the capital murder trial of Francisco Josiah Morales, accused of killing a man during a burglary in May 2021.

Morales, 20, faces a capital felony charge for allegedly shooting the victim at the Nueva Vista Apartments on North Lillie Street. Prosecutors allege the killing occurred during the burglary of the residence, where Morales and an unidentified accomplice were captured on surveillance video entering the apartment complex with their faces covered.

A black-and-white Adidas backpack, later identified as Morales’ property, was left at the scene and became a key piece of evidence. Inside the backpack, investigators discovered personal items, including a distinctive pendant necklace linked to the suspect through witness testimony.

Court documents indicate that Morales gained access to the apartment by forcing entry through the front door. The victim was found unresponsive in a bedroom, with a single gunshot wound to the chest. A firearm was recovered near the scene, which investigators believe was used in the shooting.

Detectives also used cellphone tower data to place Morales at the apartment complex during the time of the crime. Witnesses later identified him in surveillance footage based on his clothing, including a dark jacket with white stripes and reflective material on the shoes he was wearing. These items were recovered during a search of Morales’ known residence.

The defendant has a history of prior offenses, including theft, evading arrest, and firearm possession, according to court records. Prosecutors have also highlighted his alleged gang affiliation as part of the case.

If convicted, Morales could face life imprisonment or the death penalty.

The trial is scheduled to begin Monday, Dec. 16, in the 340th Judicial District Court, presided over by Judge Jay Weatherby. Jury selection proceedings began at 9 a.m. Friday. 

More updates are expected as the trial progresses.