Three Charged With Murder After Beating 57-Year-Old Texas Man To Death Over Food Stamp Card
AMARILLO, TX — Three people are facing murder and aggravated robbery charges after allegedly beating a 57-year-old man to death over his food stamp card, according to the Amarillo Police Department.
Confrontation Over Food Stamp Card
Police were called to a residence near Bluebell and 11th Avenue around 2 p.m. on September 25, where they found a man deceased with severe head and facial injuries. The victim was identified as 57-year-old Paluku Valantin.
Investigators said the assault began when 30-year-old Alline Ndayishimiye demanded Valantin’s EBT food stamp card. When he refused to give it to her, she reportedly signaled two men — 33-year-old Thomas Seldon Rendon and 18-year-old Dashaun Timothy Jackson — who were waiting in a nearby black BMW.
Beating Captured On Video
According to surveillance footage, Rendon and Jackson exited the vehicle and confronted Valantin. The argument escalated, and the two men allegedly punched the victim repeatedly and struck him with a glass bottle.
After the attack, the suspects appeared to search Valantin’s clothes before handing Ndayishimiye something and fleeing in the BMW. Witnesses later told officers that the group had taken Valantin’s EBT card and cell phone.
Victim Found Dead The Next Morning
A witness who helped Valantin to his apartment after the assault said he believed the man had fallen asleep in the bathroom. When he checked on him the next morning, he found Valantin unresponsive and called police.
Officers confirmed that the three suspects — Ndayishimiye, Rendon, and Jackson — have each been charged with aggravated robbery and murder. They are currently being held in the Potter County Detention Center.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not released additional details about whether the stolen food stamp card or phone has been recovered. Police continue to review video footage and witness statements as the case proceeds.
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