Authorities have arrested a Texas man accused of murdering his fiancé after allegedly searching online whether he could “kill an illegal human” and get away with it.
Ty Vaughn, 31, faces a murder charge in connection with the January 14 death of 27-year-old Luis Banos Norberto.
According to a criminal complaint filed in Harris County, Vaughn is accused of shooting Norberto in the face at their Baytown apartment before staging the scene to resemble a suicide. Law enforcement officials allege that Vaughn delayed calling 911 for approximately 90 minutes after the shooting, sending deceptive text messages to Norberto’s phone before reporting the incident.
Incriminating Digital Evidence
Investigators uncovered an internet search on Vaughn’s phone that read, “Can I kill an illegal human?”
Authorities believe the search was motivated by the fact that Norberto was reportedly an undocumented immigrant. Vaughn allegedly referenced Norberto’s immigration status multiple times during his interactions with police.
Surveillance footage and witness accounts also contradict Vaughn’s initial statement. While he claimed to have arrived home after 5:30 a.m. to find Norberto deceased, video evidence reportedly shows Vaughn returning home shortly after 4 a.m., with a gunshot heard minutes later. Detectives believe the shooting took place around 4:30 a.m., at which time Vaughn allegedly texted Norberto, “Babe? Babe why are you not texting back?!?!” before ultimately calling emergency services an hour later.
Crime Scene Staging Allegations
When officers arrived at the apartment, they discovered Norberto’s body lying on a bed with a lever-action rifle propped against his arm. A torn-up photo of the couple was found nearby, according to police. Vaughn allegedly told emergency dispatchers:
“My spouse is dead. Help. My life is over.”
Prior to his arrest, Vaughn spoke with local media and insisted that law enforcement was aware of “all the details.” When offered condolences, he allegedly responded, “I mean, it is what it is.”
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Vaughn was arrested on March 2 and is being held at the Harris County Jail on a $500,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on Monday. Prosecutors are expected to argue that the murder was premeditated, pointing to Vaughn’s internet search history and the staged crime scene as evidence of intent.
The case raises potential legal questions regarding hate crimes and whether Norberto’s immigration status was a factor in the alleged killing. If convicted, Vaughn faces a potential life sentence under Texas law.
Norberto, originally from Guerrero, Mexico, had family residing in Baytown. His obituary described him as a beloved son, brother, and friend.
