On Dec. 6, 2025, a 51-year-old man was charged by Buda police for stealing more than $1,700 worth of brisket from several grocery stores during the town’s Budafest festival. The incident, captured in a Facebook post by the Buda Police Department, shows 20 briskets recovered from the suspect and a photo of the stolen meat.
Theft Details
The Buda Police Department posted on Facebook that Armando Salazar, 51, stole over $1,700 worth of brisket. The post shared a photo of 20 briskets that police recovered from the suspect. The photo caption reads: Photo of brisket stolen from grocery stores in Buda on Dec. 6, 2025. (Buda Police Department photo).
The post quoted: “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.”
According to Buda Police, the meat was taken from an H-E-B in Buda, a Walmart in Buda, and additional stores in Manor and Austin.
Interagency Cooperation
The Buda Police Department said it notified the Kyle Police Department, which located Salazar at the Kyle H-E-B. The cooperation between the two departments led to the suspect’s identification and subsequent charge.
Legal Response
KXAN has reached out to Salazar’s attorney to request a statement regarding the charge. The story will be updated if a response is received.
Key Takeaways
- Armando Salazar, 51, charged with stealing $1,700 of brisket.
- Stolen from H-E-B, Walmart, and stores in Manor and Austin.
- Buda Police notified Kyle Police, who located the suspect.
The incident highlights the importance of community vigilance during local festivals and the swift action taken by law enforcement to address theft.
