Hit-and-run death of 19-year-old in Manor ruled a homicide

The hit-and-run death of a 19-year-old Manor New Tech High School graduate is now ruled a homicide. Officers say they have evidence that what happened was no accident.

A memorial now marks the spot where Devon Sanders lost his life early in the morning on July 27. Sanders was a recent graduate of Manor New Tech and had plans to attend the University of Houston in Victoria.

The hit and run happened around 12:30 a.m. in the 13000 block of Marie Lane.

Police responded to a reckless driver call from a neighbor who reported that a driver was hitting and knocking over trash cans. When officers arrived on the scene they followed a trail of debris and found Sanders.

Austin/Travis County EMS performed CPR but were unsuccessful and Sanders died at the scene.

Police are now calling it a homicide because they say they have evidence of intent.

Sanders's mother, Lea Franks, has made a plea to those responsible.

"He'll never have children. He'll never have a family. I'll never get to see that, but I do want this person you have peace. I do want this person to come forward to take some responsibility has a child should not of had to die like this, but I'm not going to choose to be bitter," Franks says. "I'm not going to choose to be angry. God would have me to forgive this person and I forgive this person and I do not want this person to be suffering with this guilt what has happened to my child."

Police are on the lookout for a black two or four door Cadillac. It will have damage to the front right passenger door and the window to that door would have shattered.

If you think you saw the vehicle or have any information about this incident you're asked to call Manor police at 512-272-8177.

A memorial service will be held at Manor New Tech on August 3.