On Dec. 2, 2025, the Travis County court in Austin handed down a 30‑year sentence to Tony McCullough, a 35‑year‑old man whose fatal road‑rage shooting in September 2021 left a 27‑year‑old woman dead.
The sentencing followed a series of court filings that traced the case from the initial incident to the final conviction.
Court documents released by the Travis County clerk confirmed that the charge was first‑degree manslaughter.
McCullough had pleaded guilty to murder, yet the judge ultimately accepted the lesser charge of manslaughter.
The decision to impose a 30‑year term reflects the severity of the offense and the legal framework governing such cases.
Sentencing Details
Under the terms of the sentence, McCullough will serve 30 years in a state correctional facility.
The court also granted him a credit of 1,551 days for time already spent in jail.
This credit will be deducted from the total period of incarceration, reducing the effective time served.
The judge emphasized that the sentence aims to balance punishment with the possibility of rehabilitation.
Sentencing guidelines for first‑degree manslaughter in Texas typically range from 10 to 30 years, making the 30‑year term the upper limit.
Court Proceedings
The case entered the court docket following the fatal shooting on Sept. 4, 2021, in north Austin.
Investigations by local law enforcement led to McCullough’s arrest and subsequent arraignment.
During the arraignment, McCullough entered a plea of guilty to murder, a plea that was later reduced.
The reduction to manslaughter was part of a plea agreement that included the 1,551‑day credit.
All court proceedings were conducted in the Travis County courtroom, with the judge presiding over the sentencing.
Victim and Incident
Cornelia Lynn Moore, aged 27, was the victim of the shooting that prompted the legal action.
Her death was attributed to injuries sustained during the altercation that escalated into a fatal shooting.
The incident occurred on a street in north Austin, where the parties involved were engaged in a road‑rage conflict.
Moore’s family has expressed sorrow over the loss, though no statements were included in the court documents.
The case highlights the dangers of road‑rage incidents and the legal consequences that can follow.
Aftermath and Implications
McCullough’s sentencing is expected to serve as a deterrent for similar violent acts within the region.
Law enforcement agencies in Travis County have reiterated their commitment to pursuing justice in violent crimes.
The 30‑year term, combined with the jail credit, underscores the seriousness with which the court views the offense.
The case will be cited in future discussions regarding sentencing practices for first‑degree manslaughter.
As the legal system continues to process cases from the 2021 incident, this sentencing marks a significant moment.
The outcome reflects the balance between the severity of the crime and the statutory guidelines available to judges.
Community leaders have called for increased awareness about the risks of road‑rage and the importance of safe driving.
The court’s decision also serves to honor the memory of Cornelia Moore by holding the perpetrator accountable.
Future court filings will likely reference this case as a precedent for sentencing in similar circumstances.
The Travis County court remains active in addressing violent crimes, ensuring that justice is served for victims and their families.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
