SAN ANTONIO – A man who confessed to murdering his girlfriend in 2023 was sentenced to 40 years in prison Monday after accepting a plea deal. For the victim’s family, they believe the punishment falls far short of delivering justice.
Adam Byrd, who fatally shot 22-year-old Jade Alvarez, was initially arrested in April 2023 for robbing a store, police said. During his arrest, Byrd admitted to killing Alvarez, who was found with multiple gunshot wounds in the 1000 block of Capitol Avenue.
According to police, Byrd told investigators he shot Alvarez because she refused to have a baby with him.
Alvarez’s family was in court for the sentencing. Her grandmother, Rita Camacho, delivered an emotional victim impact statement.
“Forty years may be the punishment that was handed down, but to us, it’s a slap in the face,” Camacho said. “It could never truly reflect the magnitude of our loss.”
Camacho described the pain Alvarez’s young son continues to endure.
“Her son was left without a mother and wants to take flowers to Mama every week,” Camacho said.
Byrd also received two 15-year sentences for aggravated robbery, which will run concurrently with his 40-year sentence. Under Texas law, he will be eligible for parole after serving at least half his sentence.
Despite their grief, Alvarez’s family said they will continue to honor Alvarez’s memory.
“We hope that during your time in incarceration, you reflect on the devastating consequences of your actions,” Camacho told Byrd in court.
If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic violence, there is so much help for you. KSAT has a list of resources on its Domestic Violence webpage, which also explains how to identify different types of abuse.
If it’s an emergency, text or call 911. For wrap-around services including the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter, call Family Violence Prevention Services at (210) 733-8810.
You can also contact the Bexar County Family Justice Center which also provides wrap-around services at (210) 631-0100.
More coverage of this story on KSAT:
