SANTA ANA, Calif. (AP) – A Costa Mesa man was found guilty of murder on Thursday for his involvement in a freeway shooting that resulted in the tragic death of a 6-year-old boy in 2021.
Marcus Anthony Eriz, 26, was convicted of second-degree murder and shooting at an occupied motor vehicle, along with sentencing enhancements for discharging a firearm causing death. He now faces a possible 40 years to life in prison, with a sentencing hearing set for April 12.
Eriz and his girlfriend, Wynne Lee, were arrested as suspects in a vehicle-to-vehicle shooting along the 55 Freeway in Orange, where Aiden Leos tragically lost his life. While Eriz faced the murder charges, Lee is standing trial separately, facing charges of accessory after the fact and misdemeanor for having a concealed firearm in a vehicle.
The fatal incident arose from a traffic altercation on the 55 Freeway in Orange, resulting in Eriz firing his gun at a car, ultimately leading to Aiden’s death. Eriz’s defense attorney argued that the victim’s provocative hand gesture justified a manslaughter conviction, but the jury chose to convict him of second-degree murder.
The prosecution presented evidence that Eriz had purposely customized his gun and had admitted to carrying it in his car because of perceived hostility on the roads. The jury’s decision serves as a strong message against the recklessness and dangers of road rage incidents.
The tragedy of Aiden’s death continues to deeply affect the community, and the court is providing counseling to the jurors who endured a challenging trial. No prison sentence or legal action can ever replace the life lost, but the guilty verdict offers some semblance of justice for Aiden Leos and his grieving family.
The Orange County District Attorney, Todd Spitzer, emphasized the gravity of the case and the imperative of accountability for those who choose violence. The verdict signifies that taking the law into one’s own hands comes with severe consequences, especially when it results in the loss of innocent lives.
