Costa Mesa, California – A man convicted of the road-rage shooting that tragically took the life of a 6-year-old boy on an Orange County freeway has been sentenced to 40 years to life in prison. Marcus Anthony Eriz, 26, of Costa Mesa, was found guilty in January of second-degree murder and firing at an occupied vehicle for the May 21, 2021, incident that resulted in the death of Aiden Leos. Additionally, jurors confirmed allegations of personal handgun use.
During the sentencing hearing, Eriz, speaking for the first time, expressed remorse and offered an apology to Aiden’s family. However, Aiden’s family was notably absent from the proceedings, leaving a somber atmosphere in the courtroom. The heartbreaking events had unfolded nearly three years ago, with Aiden in the back seat of his family’s car on his way to kindergarten.
Aiden’s mother testified about the harrowing ordeal that transpired when a white Volkswagen Golf SportWagen cut off their vehicle on the freeway. An exchange of gestures escalated into a fatal confrontation when a shot was fired after Aiden’s mother reacted to provocation from the other driver. Tragically, the bullet struck Aiden, leading to his untimely death.
Eriz’s arrest followed an intensive law enforcement search for the shooter, spanning several days. The trial revealed the callousness of Eriz’s actions when he fired the fatal shot that ultimately claimed Aiden’s life. The emotional testimonies shed light on the devastating impact of the incident, with Aiden’s mother recounting the final moments she shared with her son before seeking help.
Public outrage and a plea for assistance in identifying the culprit ensued after the shooting, prompting a widespread search for the suspect. Massive rewards were offered, generating significant public interest and support in bringing the perpetrator to justice. Eriz’s attempts to evade authorities by altering his appearance and hiding the vehicle in a relative’s garage only prolonged the inevitable reckoning.
The subsequent arrests of Eriz and his girlfriend, Wynne Lee, marked a significant development in the case. Lee faces charges as an accessory after the fact, highlighting the complex legal proceedings surrounding the tragic incident. As the legal process unfolds, the community continues to grapple with the repercussions of Aiden’s senseless death and the pursuit of justice for his grieving family.