What happened: A Midland jury convicted Daniel Velasquez, 19, of murder on February 6, following a weeklong trial. The jury sentenced Velasquez to 75 years in prison with eligibility for parole after 30 years. The conviction stems from an October 19, 2024, gang-related drive-by shooting.

The big picture: The shooting happened during a late-night party on Howard Dr. Prosecutors said Velasquez and co-defendant Joe Daniel “JD” Gutierrez, 18, fired from a vehicle, killing bystander Savanna Corrine Callaway Jolley, 22.

Gutierrez pleaded guilty in October 2025 and received a 35-year sentence under a plea agreement. A third suspect, Ivan Galindo, is accused of driving the black 2017 Chevrolet Silverado used in the shooting. His case is still pending. Investigators said the shooting stemmed from an ongoing dispute with someone at the gathering, but the gunfire struck Jolley, who was sitting in a nearby parked vehicle.

Midland’s top stories. One quick email. Every Friday.
Get Midland Wrapped, our free weekly email for busy Midland residents. Each Friday, we break down the week’s most important local stories — what happened, why it matters, and what to watch next — so you can stay informed without the noise.

Go deeper: The case was tried in the 385th District Court, where Velasquez faced a possible punishment range of five to 99 years or life in prison. Midland Police Department detectives led the investigation, locating the vehicle, executing a search warrant and arresting suspects. Prosecutors Bonita Tribble and Henry Eckels argued the shooting was planned and tied to gang activity.