David Damato, a 21-year-old male from Dallas, Texas, tragically lost his life on February 9, 2020. He was fatally shot during a break-in at his apartment in the Red Bird neighborhood of Dallas. Damato, who was courageous and known for his love and protection of family and friends, confronted the masked intruders and shot one of them before being fatally shot multiple times by another intruder, Josiah Salinas.
The incident occurred early in the morning when Damato and a witness were
awakened by the sound of breaking glass. Damato armed himself with a .40-caliber Glock and confronted the intruders, firing several rounds at one of them. In response, Salinas, armed with a 9mm HighPoint rifle, shot Damato multiple times, leading to his death. The suspects, including Salinas and Damarte Burt, along with two juveniles, broke into Damato's apartment through a balcony door and stole cash, jewelry, shoes, and Damato's gun before fleeing the scene.
Following the incident, the suspects took the injured juvenile to a local hospital, where they were detained by police. During interviews, Burt and Salinas admitted their roles in the crime, with Salinas stating that they went to rob Damato because he knew Damato had cash and jewelry at the apartment. Both Burt and Salinas were charged with capital murder, along with the two juveniles involved in the break-in.
The tragic death of David Damato led to a significant investigation, resulting in the arrest and charging of four individuals for their involvement in the fatal shooting and robbery. The case highlighted the dangers of home invasions and the bravery of individuals like Damato who attempt to protect themselves and their property in such situations.
