Jury Convicts Aurora Man of First-Degree Murder in 2022 Shooting
A jury found Samuel Garcia, 26, of Aurora, guilty of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder in a 2022 shooting that resulted in one fatality and one injury, the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office reported Tuesday.
Details of the Incident
According to court statements by Assistant State’s Attorneys Lori Anderson and Amanda Busljeta, on September 24, 2022, a white sedan stopped near the 300 block of Center Avenue in Aurora. Garcia exited the passenger seat armed with a silver revolver.
He confronted two men, shouted gang slogans, and shot one man in the face and left arm. The second man, Ferrer Velasquez, tried to flee but stumbled and was shot twice in the head.
Aftermath
- Garcia returned to the vehicle, which then fled eastbound.
- Velasquez was pronounced dead at the scene.
- The other victim was hospitalized and later recovered.
Context from Witnesses
“Earlier that afternoon, Velasquez and the other individual had come to the aid of a juvenile being harassed by Garcia and others in the car.”
This event may have precipitated the shooting.
Prosecutors’ Statement
“The evidence clearly showed Garcia’s intent and actions, leading to his conviction on charges of first-degree murder and attempted murder.”
Summary
Samuel Garcia was found guilty of a deadly shooting in Aurora linked to gang-related violence, resulting in one death and one survivor.
Author's summary: The jury convicted Samuel Garcia of first-degree murder in a targeted 2022 shooting in Aurora, rooted in gang conflict and retaliation.