On September 10, 2025, District Judge Jennifer Dillingham sentenced Aaron Joel Plaza, 30, to 30 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice–Institutional Division for the murder of Severo San Miguel, which occurred on October 31, 2023, in Dilley.
Plaza pled guilty to murder on April 28, 2025, under a plea agreement that capped the possible punishment at 30 years. A contested sentencing hearing was held, during which the Defendant asked for the minimum of 5 years in prison. The State argued for the maximum sentence allowed under the agreement — 30 years — which the Court ultimately imposed.
According to evidence presented in court, on the night of October 31, 2023, Plaza entered the Mi Cabana restaurant in Dilley, where the victim, Severo San Miguel, was dining with family. Plaza sat directly across from San Miguel and initiated a verbal altercation. When San Miguel stood up from his seat, Plaza also stood and shot him once in the abdomen.
San Miguel was rushed to Frio Regional Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Plaza fled the scene immediately but was apprehended shortly thereafter by law enforcement.
This case was prosecuted by First Assistant Leslie Carranza, with the investigation and support from the Dilley Police Department and Frio County Sheriff’s Office.
This case represents a heartbreaking loss for a family. Mr. San Miguel was taken from his loved ones in a senseless act of violence that occurred in front of those who cared about him most. While no sentence can undo the pain they’ve endured, we hope this outcome brings a measure of justice and peace as they continue to grieve his loss.
Severo San Miguel
Aaron Plaza