by | Published
Charles Edward Morgan has been sentenced to 50 years in prison for the murder of Guadalupe Anguiano III, an act committed just one day after Morgan's release from prison. The sentence was handed down by Judge Russell Wilson on June 23, 2025, following Morgan's guilty plea to murder on April 2, 2025.
The fatal shooting occurred on September 6, 2021. Morgan had been staying with his mother, Heather Morgan, after his recent release. On the day of the crime, Morgan, his mother, the victim, and others were having a cookout on their shared property. Without warning or a clear reason, Morgan retrieved a shotgun and shot Anguiano in the chest at close range. He then fled the scene with his mother, attempting to reach Louisiana.
Multiple witnesses identified Morgan as the shooter. Both he and his mother were later apprehended by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Morgan's mother is currently serving an 8-year sentence for her role in their escape attempt.
During the punishment hearing, the District Attorney’s Office presented evidence detailing Morgan's attempts to delay his trial by faking mental illness. Furthermore, while at a mental health facility, Morgan and other residents reportedly made weapons from parts of a blood pressure machine, created a riot, and threatened staff. He also planned violent attacks on other residents, with one victim requiring ongoing neurological monitoring.
Even Morgan’s own sister testified, describing Guadalupe Anguiano III as a "sweet, kind man," a sentiment echoed by most who knew him.
This conviction and sentence were the result of a collaborative effort by law enforcement agencies. The District Attorney’s Office extended its appreciation to the Atascosa County Sheriff’s Office, specifically Lt. Gavin Lindsey and Chief Max Peralta, for their thorough investigative work. Thanks were also given to Lara Tristan, Unit Manager of the Atascosa County Adult Probation Office, for preparing a comprehensive presentence investigation report that provided the court with crucial insights into Morgan’s background.
Assistant District Attorney Erika Price worked tirelessly on the case, ensuring justice was served for the victim’s family. While no sentence can truly heal the pain of losing a loved one, the community hopes this outcome provides some measure of closure.
