Wyoming Medium-Security Inmate, Convicted in Runover, Dies

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — An inmate whose conviction was partially overturned by the Wyoming Supreme Court has died after a lengthy illness.

Frank Eugene Villarreal died on his 51st birthday Sunday at Wyoming's medium security prison in Torrington.

Wyoming Department of Corrections officials say Villarreal was serving a four-to-eight-year sentence.

The Supreme Court last year upheld aggravated assault and battery convictions against Villarreal for running over another man.

Villarreal and Robert Flores had argued and were headed south of Rawlins to fight when Flores jumped out of a truck. Villarreal drove after, running him over and breaking his leg.

Villarreal helped Flores get to a hospital. Flores refused to testify. On appeal, Villarreal argued his right to confront a witness was violated.

The justices disagreed but dismissed another battery charge due to insufficient evidence.