Long Beach, California – Rhyan Burrell of Lynwood has been sentenced to life in state prison without the possibility of parole for his involvement in the shooting death of a grandfather watering his lawn in West Long Beach. Burrell, 26, was found guilty of first-degree murder and six counts of attempted murder along with his co-defendant, Terrel Warren, 29, who is set to be sentenced on February 26. The incident occurred in October 2018 when the two men opened fire from a car, resulting in the tragic death of Jose Raul Corrales Aguilar, 69.
Burrell and Warren’s actions were believed to be fueled by a prior alleged assault on a relative of one of the defendants by a group of students. This led to a confrontation with school officials before the fateful shooting took place. The incident was captured on surveillance cameras as the men fired shots at a passing car and a group of students walking home, ultimately resulting in Aguilar’s death.
Following the shooting, both Burrell and Warren were apprehended. Authorities found a .40-caliber handgun in Burrell’s possession, while the 9-millimeter handgun used in the shooting was discovered during an unrelated arrest. Aguilar, described as a devoted grandfather and mechanic, was known for caring for his ill wife and enjoying spontaneous outings with his family in his Volkswagen van.
The sentencing of Rhyan Burrell to life in prison without parole underscored the severity of his crime and the tragic loss of an innocent life. The court’s decision highlighted the consequences of senseless violence and the impact it has on families and communities. As the legal process unfolds with the upcoming sentencing of Terrel Warren, the community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the shooting and mourn the loss of Jose Raul Corrales Aguilar.