TEXAS — A fire that devastated a Wimberley restaurant has now led to murder charges, following the death of a 23-year-old man who succumbed to injuries from the blaze nearly two weeks later.
Authorities confirmed that Zachary Salley, one of the victims injured in the June 27 fire at Savage’s Hill Country Bar and Grill, died on July 13, triggering a criminal escalation in the ongoing investigation.
Suspect Charged Following Victim’s Death
Aidan Dwyer, 24, of San Marcos, has been formally charged with murder in connection to the fire and Salley’s death, according to announcements from Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra and the Hays County Fire Marshal’s Office, as reported by CBS Austin.
Dwyer was initially taken into custody on June 30 in Buna, Texas, by deputies from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, acting on a search warrant tied to the fire investigation.
Restaurant Fire Caused Extensive Damage
The fire broke out in the early morning hours of June 27, engulfing the restaurant and leading to extensive structural damage. Though firefighters were able to extinguish the flames by noon that day, the building was later declared a total loss by the fire marshal.
Salley sustained severe injuries during the fire and battled for over two weeks before passing away, a development that has significantly intensified the legal stakes in the case.
Authorities Continue Their Investigation
Following Dwyer’s arrest, Texas Rangers joined efforts with the Hays County Fire Marshal’s Office to investigate the origin and circumstances surrounding the blaze.
Dwyer is currently being held in the Hays County Jail as the case proceeds. Officials continue to seek information from the public that could assist in understanding the full timeline and events before, during, and after the fire.
“This is not just about property loss,” Judge Becerra said. “This is about the loss of a young life and a community seeking accountability.”
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Hays County Fire Marshal’s Office.
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