A judge ruled on Friday that a California man will spend 40 years to life in prison for the tragic incident where he killed a six-year-old in a fit of road rage.
Earlier this year, Marcus Eriz, 27, was found guilty of the murder of Aiden Leos.
On May 21, 2021, Aiden found himself in the back seat of his mother’s car, heading towards kindergarten. As they traveled along State Route 55, Aiden’s mother, Joanna Cloonan, became frustrated when a driver in a Volkswagen abruptly cut her off. In response, she raised her hand in a gesture of displeasure towards the offending driver.
Eriz got apprehended a fortnight later, following an extensive manhunt led by the California Highway Patrol for the shooter. Additionally, the authorities also apprehended Wynne Lee, the driver of the Volkswagen.
“The agony that a mother experiences while desperately searching for any possible way to aid her young son as he slowly succumbs to death is indescribable,” expressed Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer after the sentencing on Friday.
Eriz was found guilty by a jury in January of second-degree murder, shooting into an occupied vehicle, and two felony enhancements for personally discharging a firearm that caused great bodily injury and death.
Superior Court Judge Richard King ruled on Friday that the 27-year-old would be sentenced to 40 years to life in state prison.
According to Mr. Spitzer, he expressed his gratitude towards Judge King for recognizing that this was not just a simple mistake but rather a deliberate act of murder. He emphasized that the perpetrator seemed more concerned about his own future after prison than the life of the innocent young boy whose life was tragically cut short.
While awaiting trial, Ms. Lee is facing charges, including one felony count of accessory after the fact and one misdemeanor count of having a concealed firearm in a vehicle.
Eriz expressed his apology in court prior to his sentencing, as reported by NBC News.
Eriz expressed remorse for the harm he caused, acknowledging that the young boy was not just a victim, but also a cherished son, a beloved little brother, and a dear friend to many. He described the boy as someone who radiated joy, seemingly illuminating the world with his presence. Eriz recognized the magnitude of his actions and sincerely apologized for the pain inflicted upon the innocent child, acknowledging the responsibility he held for the suffering endured.
Eriz expressed his strong conviction that he firmly believed the undeserving nature of the situation, not only for the individual in question but also for his family.
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