SAN ANTONIO – Mark Howerton accused of killing a Trinity University cheerleader in 2017 was found not guilty of Murder.

A Bexar County Jury found Mark Howerton not guilty of Murder but was found guilty of Aggravated Assault causing serious bodily injury.

A separate sentencing hearing has been scheduled for two weeks from now. Howerton looks to face a penalty range of 2 to 20 years.

According to court documents, on October 29th, 2017 Mark Howerton and Cayley Mandadi attended the Mala Luna music festival in San Antonio. Hours after the event Howerton drove Cayley’s unconscious body to a hospital in Luling. The two had apparently been involved in an “abusive relationship” for some time.

Initially, hospital staff treated Cayley for a possible drug overdose. She was then transferred to a medical facility in Kyle, Texas. From there, a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner conducted an exam where multiple bruises were found on Cayley’s face, arms, and legs. Cayley never regained consciousness and died two days later.

According to the autopsy, her cause of death was due to blunt force trauma to her head.

"Cayley’s death is a reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence,” said Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales, “Although we are disappointed that the jury did not convict Mark Howerton of murder, we are pleased that he will be held accountable for his actions and is facing up to 20 years in prison. The outcome of this emotional and difficult journey to justice is a testament to the determination of Cayley’s family and friends’ pursuit of justice and our office’s efforts to hold people accountable for their actions. May Cayley Mandadi now rest in peace.”