A shocking case from Texas has ended with two men receiving life sentences after a carefully planned murder-for-hire plot went horribly wrong and targeted the wrong person.
Murder-for-Hire Plot in Texas
The case took place near Houston, involving two men — Ricardo Obando Jr., 52, and Michael Seery, 43.
Both were convicted in February for their roles in a planned killing that instead left an innocent man seriously injured. Recently, David Hittner sentenced them to life in prison, along with additional years to be served consecutively.
How the Plot Began
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas, the plan started due to jealousy.
- Seery believed his wife had been unfaithful
- The alleged affair had happened years earlier
- Despite the time gap, he remained angry
He then hired Obando to carry out the killing.
Attack on the Wrong Person
After months of planning, the attack happened on February 4, 2025, along Highway 99.
- Obando opened fire on a man driving to work
- The victim was shot in the neck, torso, and hand
- Despite severe injuries, the man survived
Later, it was discovered that the victim was not the intended target. The actual target had already moved to a different location.
Weapons and Planning
Investigators uncovered several disturbing details:
- A 3D-printed gun and silencer were used
- Obando conducted surveillance on the victim
- There had been an earlier failed attempt
Evidence also showed that payments for the attack were made through Seery’s business to hide their true purpose.
Key Evidence in Court
During the trial:
- Video from the victim’s car captured the moment of the shooting
- Phone records showed detailed planning
- Photos of weapons and a 3D printer were presented as evidence
Seery’s wife also testified, revealing that the affair he was upset about had happened around 12 years earlier.
Additional Legal Outcomes
A third accused, Matthew Rosas, was found not guilty by the jury.
Authorities highlighted that the case initially appeared to be road rage but later turned out to be a planned attack involving multiple agencies working together.
