COSTA MESA, California – A woman involved in a fatal road-rage incident on the Costa Mesa Freeway that resulted in the death of a 6-year-old boy has pleaded guilty to being an accessory to the crime and carrying a concealed weapon in the vehicle. Wynne Lee, 26, was sentenced to four years in prison but has already served out her sentence due to custody credits and time spent on home confinement.
Lee’s boyfriend, Marcus Anthony Eriz, was convicted earlier and sentenced to 40 years to life in prison for firing the shot that killed Aiden Leos. The incident occurred on the freeway in Yorba Linda on May 21, 2021. The parents of the boy did not attend the hearing where Lee received her sentence.
During the trial, it was revealed that Lee and Eriz were driving to work when they engaged in a road-rage confrontation with another driver, Joanna Cloonan, who was taking her son to kindergarten. The altercation led to Eriz firing a shot from a 9mm Glock, striking the boy and causing his death. Despite knowing what had happened, Lee took steps to help Eriz evade authorities.
Lee’s bail was reduced to $100,000 after the incident, and she was placed on home confinement with her parents. Despite objections, she avoided serving time in jail due to existing credits. Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer criticized the leniency afforded to Lee and Eriz in light of the severity of the crime.
The tragic incident sparked outrage in the community, with many questioning the justice system’s handling of the case. Spitzer condemned the state’s laws that allowed for such leniency in cases involving serious crimes. The impact on the victim’s family was highlighted during the proceedings, emphasizing the need for accountability in cases of such great violence.
The judge’s decision not to grant probation to Lee underscored the gravity of her involvement in the crime. Despite having no prior criminal record, her actions in aiding Eriz after the shooting were deemed unacceptable. The case served as a reminder of the consequences of reckless behavior on the road and the devastating impact it can have on innocent lives.
The sentencing of Lee brought some closure to the tragic incident, but questions remain about the accountability of individuals involved in such crimes. The community continues to mourn the loss of the young boy and demand justice for his senseless death. As the legal proceedings conclude, the memory of Aiden Leos serves as a poignant reminder of the need for responsible and respectful conduct on the roads to prevent such tragedies from recurring.