Michael Bean, a 20-year-old male from Lubbock, Texas, tragically lost his life on April 4, 2020. Bean was one of four victims who suffered gunshot wounds during a shooting incident at an apartment in the 2100 block of 49th Street. The incident occurred after a dispute over stolen marijuana. Bean and another victim, 17-year-old Mia Altamirano, were pronounced dead at the scene, while two other individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The investigation revealed that Bean had
allegedly punched a man and taken some of his marijuana earlier that evening. In retaliation, Malachi Gibson and Ricky Clardy Jr. confronted the victims at the apartment door, leading to an argument during which Clardy fired multiple rounds, striking all four victims. Gibson and Clardy then fled the scene before police arrived.
Both Gibson and Clardy were later arrested and charged with murder. Clardy pleaded guilty to two counts of murder and was sentenced to 50 years in prison. Gibson's case remains pending, but he has been charged with two counts of murder as well. Additionally, Janda-Lee Roberson, who drove Gibson and Clardy to the residence, was charged with failure to report a felony.
The families of Bean and Altamirano were consulted about the plea deal and expressed satisfaction with Clardy's punishment. Clardy expressed remorse for his actions and accepted his lengthy sentence without hesitation.
This tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of disputes over drugs and the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully. The loss of Michael Bean and Mia Altamirano serves as a somber reminder of the impact such violence can have on families and communities.
