WACO, Texas — Kevin Kirven, 38, pleaded guilty to shooting at federal officers in a Waco standoff as well as murder charges in Limestone County on Thursday.
The 19th District Court in McLennan County sentenced Kirven to 60 years for assault against a public servant, referencing an event on Mar. 22, 2022. In addition, Kirven will serve simultaneous 60-year sentences for murders in Limestone and Tarrant County.
Kirven, a member of a criminal street gang, was on the run in March 2022. Police received information Kirven was staying at a house on Hay Avenue in Waco. The police department shortly began watching the house.
When federal officers approached the home to confront Kirven, he reportedly announced he had hostages.
According to a release, Kirven shot at the officers, but he eventually surrendered after officers fired back. No one is reported to have been injured.
Kirven is unlikely to receive parole due to his criminal history and the violent nature of his crimes.
“This plea assures that a violent and dangerous man will likely never breathe free air again, while also eliminating the expense and delays associated with a trial and appeal. Our goal is always to protect the community while being good stewards of the community’s resources," Assistant District Attorneys Kristi DeCluitt & Christi Hunting Horse said.
Kirven was already serving a 60-year sentence for the January 2022 murder of Willie Rhodes, a Waco convenience store clerk.
In 2023, Kirven claimed responsibility for the murder of Sabion Kubitza and Jabob Ybarra. Kirven's cousin was convicted, and is currently serving a life sentence without parole for the murder of Kubitza and Ybarra.