On Saturday, December 6, 2025, a routine day of Budafest festivities turned into a crime scene when 51-year-old Armando Salazar allegedly stole more than $1,700 worth of brisket from several grocery stores around Buda and beyond.
Buda Police Facebook Announcement
The Buda Police Department posted a message on its official Facebook page that evening, describing the incident and sharing a photo of 20 briskets that the police recovered from Salazar.
The Facebook Post
The post included the following statement: “On Saturday, December 6th, while many of us were enjoying Budafest activities, Mr. Salazar decided not to partake in our wonderful food vendors on Main Street and in City Park,” the post said in part. “Instead, he stole over $1,700 worth of brisket.”
The Recovered Photo
A photo captioned “Photo of brisket stolen from grocery stores in Buda on Dec. 6, 2025. (Buda Police Department photo)” was attached to the post, showing the meat that was taken.
Amount of Brisket Stolen
The Buda Police Department said the stolen brisket was worth more than $1,700, a figure that places the theft near the $2,000 threshold.
Stores Involved
According to the department, the brisket was taken from an H-E-B in Buda, a Walmart in Buda, and other stores located in Manor and Austin.
Police Coordination
After the Facebook post, Buda Police notified the Kyle Police Department. Kyle Police located Salazar at the Kyle H-E-B.
Arrest and Charge
He has been charged with theft.
Media Outreach
KXAN reached out to Salazar’s attorney to request a statement regarding the charge. The station noted that the story will be updated if a response is received.
Suspect Details
Armando Salazar is 51 years old and is the only individual named in the police report.
Budafest Context
The incident occurred during Budafest, an event that drew many people to Main Street and City Park for food vendors and activities.
Community Impact
The theft disrupted the enjoyment of many attendees, as the post noted that Mr. Salazar chose not to partake in the food vendors.
Legal Process
The charge of theft places Salazar under the jurisdiction of local criminal law, and the case will proceed through the court system.
Police Coordination Details
Buda Police’s coordination with Kyle Police exemplifies inter-departmental cooperation in handling theft cases that cross municipal boundaries.
Media Coverage
The Buda Police Department’s Facebook post and the subsequent KXAN outreach provide the public with timely information about the case.
Next Steps
Law enforcement will continue to monitor the situation, and the story will be updated if new information becomes available.
Key Takeaways
- 51-year-old Armando Salazar is charged with theft after stealing over $1,700 worth of brisket.
- The stolen meat came from multiple grocery stores in Buda, Manor, and Austin.
- Buda Police coordinated with Kyle Police, who located Salazar at Kyle H-E-B.
Closing
The incident underscores the importance of community vigilance during local events and the swift response of law enforcement to address theft. The Buda Police Department’s prompt communication via social media and collaboration with neighboring departments aim to maintain public trust and safety.
