Anaheim, California – A tragic case of road rage led to the sentencing of Marcus Eriz, 27, to 40 years to life for the murder of six-year-old Aiden Leos. This heart-wrenching event occurred on a California freeway in May 2021, stemming from a moment of heated emotions between Aiden’s mother and Eriz.
Eriz, convicted of second-degree murder and shooting at an occupied motor vehicle, addressed Aiden’s family and the court with a tearful apology before being led away in handcuffs. Describing Aiden as a beautiful and precious child, he expressed deep remorse for the pain caused to the boy and his family.
The tragic incident unfolded when Aiden’s mother, Joanna Cloonan, gave Eriz and his girlfriend, Wynne Lee, the middle finger after an altercation on the freeway. In response, Eriz fired his gun, unintentionally hitting Aiden in the chest as the bullet passed through the trunk of the car.
The aftermath of the shooting sparked a two-week manhunt as Eriz and Lee evaded capture, eventually leading authorities to track them down and make the arrest. Eriz, an autoworker whose social media accounts featured images of him with guns, readily admitted to the crime during questioning, citing a lack of forethought or consideration for the consequences.
Facing sentencing, Judge Richard King did not mince his words in describing Aiden as an innocent victim and condemning Eriz for the senseless act of violence. Despite Eriz’s attempts to explain his actions, the judge emphasized that there was no justification for the deadly consequences of his actions.
The court proceedings shed light on the devastating impact of the incident on Aiden’s family, particularly his mother, who witnessed her son’s tragic death. The sentencing of 40 years to life serves as a solemn reminder of the tragic consequences of reckless actions driven by anger and a lack of regard for human life.
The case of Marcus Eriz and the murder of Aiden Leos stand as a poignant testament to the dangers of road rage and the irreparable harm it can cause to innocent lives. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this heartbreaking loss, it serves as a call to prioritize safety and restraint in moments of conflict on the roads.