Jury finds man guilty for murder of 70-year-old woman

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- A Williamson County jury found a 28-year-old man guilty of the murder of a 70-year-old woman that happened in August 2022 and sentenced him to 60 years in prison, according to a news release from the Williamson County District Attorney's Office.

The shooting happened on County Road 245 in Florence, the release said. According to investigators, Diana Pier likely pulled over to "assist" Gilbreath. This is when Gilbreath shot Pier after she stopped behind his vehicle, the release said.

The defense argued during the trial "that Gilbreath was legally insane at the time of the murder." But evidence presented suggested his actions "were influenced by alcohol and drug abuse," the release said.

“I am pleased that justice has been achieved for Diana Pier and her loved ones in this tragic case. This verdict and sentence reflect the severity of this heinous crime and the impact it has had on our community. While this sentence will not bring their loved one back, we hope this sentence provides some sense of justice to the many people who knew and loved Mrs. Pier. My office will continue to pursue significant punishment for those who commit such random, senseless violence,” District Attorney Shawn Dick said in the release.