06/01/2026
UPDATE:
On Monday (June 1, 2026), Midland Police Department detectives assigned to the Midland Police Department Crimes Against Persons Unit conducted a neighborhood canvass in the Lone Trail Subdivision.
“During the canvass, detectives made contact with the suspect – later identified as 36-year-old Roberto Pando III -- in the 2600 block of Ranch Avenue,” MPD reported.” During the contact, the suspect provided a full confession regarding his involvement in the murder. The suspect was subsequently taken into custody and booked into the Midland County Detention Center for one count of Murder.
MPD also reported additional charges are pending as the investigation continues regarding the other victims involved in this incident.
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At approximately 1:24 a.m. on Monday (June 1, 2026), Midland Police officers responded to a reported disturbance with weapons involving two vehicles.
When they arrived near the intersection of Loop 250 and Fairgrounds, they located a 2009 Ford F-150.
“The driver of the vehicle was deceased, four passengers were transported with life-threatening injuries,” MPD reported.
The driver was identified as 18-year-old James Baker of Midland. Next of kin has been notified, and the investigation is on-going.