In the pre-dawn hours of August 25, 2020, Marisol Martinez, a 33-year-old Hispanic woman from Austin, was found shot to death in New Braunfels, Texas. Police discovered her around 2:50 a.m. inside her black Ford Expedition, which was parked on the shoulder of Interstate 35 North near the Walmart Distribution Center.
Investigators quickly identified a suspect: Sacramento Martinez, 32, who had previously been in a relationship with Marisol. A protective order had been issued against him following a family violence and strangulation incident in March 2019. Police believe that after shooting Marisol, Sacramento fled on foot, running across the highway to a TA Truck Stop. There, witnesses reported hearing several gunshots just before an 18-wheeler sped away from the lot.
Sacramento Martinez had shot the truck's driver, 45-year-old Daniel Sieger of Mission, Texas, and stolen his rig.
As he drove south on I-35 toward San Antonio, callers to 911 reported an 18-wheeler being driven erratically. The chaotic flight ended when the truck crashed and overturned in downtown San Antonio at the intersection of Austin Street and Casa Blanca. First responders found Daniel Sieger dead from a gunshot wound inside the cab. Sacramento Martinez fled the wreck on foot but was apprehended a short time later by San Antonio police.
Sacramento Martinez was arrested and charged with capital murder for the deaths of Marisol Martinez and Daniel Sieger. The case went to trial in April 2023. While on the witness stand, Sacramento Martinez admitted to shooting both victims. He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to life in prison. As of April 2023, the case is closed.
