Houston, TX – A 33-year-old Navy veteran has admitted to fatally beating a disabled man during a late-night encounter in north Houston, telling investigators that he loses control when he drinks alone. The case, which surfaced in a detailed report and supported by a probable cause affidavit, reveals a violent confrontation that left 38-year-old Rudy Ricky Diaz dead after two weeks in the hospital.
What Led Up to the Fatal Encounter
According to investigators, Hayden Humphreys, the defendant, was walking along the 18000 block of McKay Drive shortly before midnight on July 23, 2022, after leaving a club. Detectives said Humphreys came across Diaz, who was wheelchair-bound and had all 10 of his toes amputated months earlier.
In an account that contradicts witness statements, Humphreys claimed Diaz first asked him for money and then demanded more before “standing up” in what he described as a threatening manner. Humphreys insisted he punched Diaz in self-defence, but multiple witnesses told authorities they saw something very different.
Witnesses Describe a Brutal Assault
Several people who were in the area at the time told police they saw Humphreys on top of Diaz, “throwing haymakers” as the victim lay motionless on the ground. Those who worked nearby also said Diaz was known to be “harmless” and posed no threat.
Paramedics transported Diaz to a hospital, where he remained for roughly two weeks before dying of blunt force trauma, according to the medical examiner.
Video Footage and Erratic Behaviour
Although the assault itself was not captured on camera, detectives reviewed area surveillance that showed Humphreys behaving erratically and appearing intoxicated. He later admitted to investigators that he had been drinking that night, acknowledging he had consumed “a few drinks” before the fatal confrontation.
The situation escalated further when investigators uncovered a recorded jail call between Humphreys and his father. During that call, Humphreys admitted he had gone out drinking alone because no one wanted to join him. In the same conversation, the Navy veteran told his father:
“When I’m left alone, I’m a f—ing child.”
He also acknowledged:
“I know I lost my f—ing mind that night. I know I did.”
Humphreys told authorities he had blacked out and did not remember the incident.
Original Murder Charge Reduced Through Plea Deal
Humphreys was initially charged with murder, but prosecutors later reached a plea deal that allowed him to plead guilty to manslaughter. He now faces eight years in prison, with formal sentencing scheduled for December 1, according to the report.
The possibility of a longer sentence has weighed heavily on Diaz’s family, who believe the punishment does not reflect the brutality of the attack. Diaz’s brother, Benji Diaz, told the station he wished for stronger accountability.
Family of the Victim Speaks Out
Diaz’s brother said the victim had lost his toes only a few months before the attack due to medical complications. He expressed deep frustration that the man responsible for his brother’s death could be released in under a decade.
In a statement Benji said:
“Anybody who is out there hurting people in that type of manner or taking advantage of people who can’t defend themselves — I don’t think they deserve to be free at all.”
Community Reaction and Legal Implications
Cases involving violence against disabled individuals often spark intense public reaction, and this incident has been no exception. Advocates say the case highlights the vulnerability of disabled individuals, especially those living without consistent medical support or community protection.
Legal experts note that intoxication is not a defence for violent conduct, though it may affect plea negotiations. In this case, prosecutors balanced the available evidence, conflicting accounts, and potential trial outcomes before agreeing to reduce the charge to manslaughter.
Share your experiences in the comments below.
