Klayton Wade Manning, an 18-year-old male from Dale, Texas, tragically lost his life on June 9, 2020. Klayton, who had recently graduated from Luling High School, was a beloved member of his community and a volunteer firefighter with the Southeast Caldwell County Fire Department. He was known for his outgoing personality, beaming smile, and dedication to helping others. Klayton was out with his cousin and best friend, Landin Dawson Robinson, when the incident occurred.
On that fateful day, Klayton and his 16-year-old cousin, Landin Robinson, were riding an ATV near Tenney Creek Road in Caldwell County. The two teenagers were shot and killed by Bryan Haynes, a 34-year-old man from Austin. According to the Caldwell County Sheriff's Office, Haynes believed that "aliens" were chasing him on the ATV, which led him to fire his gun multiple times, resulting in the deaths of Klayton and Landin. The community of Luling was heartbroken over the loss of these two young lives, and a vigil was held to honor their memories.
Following the incident, Bryan Haynes was arrested by deputies on June 11, 2020, at a home in Bastrop County. He was charged with the murders of Klayton Wade Manning and Landin Dawson Robinson and was held at the Caldwell County jail with a $500,000 bond. The case garnered significant attention, and the Southeast Caldwell County Volunteer Fire Department, along with other community members, provided a memorial escort for Klayton and Landin. The escort began at Capital Mortuary Services in Austin and headed to O'Bannon Funeral Home in Luling.
Klayton's death left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the entire Luling community. He was remembered as a kind-hearted and gentle soul who was always ready to lend a helping hand. His dreams of becoming a firefighter were cut short, but his legacy of selflessness and dedication to his community will never be forgotten. The tragic loss of Klayton and Landin brought the community closer together, as they mourned the untimely deaths of two promising young individuals.
