Stockton Man Convicted in Fatal Family Shooting That Also Endangered Children
A San Joaquin County jury has convicted 23-year-old Kenneth Ernesto “Ernie” Mejia of second-degree murder and multiple felony charges linked to a violent shooting that killed a relative and put two young children at risk in Stockton.
The verdict came after a tense trial where prosecutors detailed how Mejia escalated a confrontation with relatives on November 9, 2024, turning deadly during a family dispute.
Harassment of Children Led to Violence
According to the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office, Mejia harassed two children under 12, taunting them and swerving his vehicle toward them as they rode bicycles home. When the children’s father confronted Mejia at his residence, the suspect opened fire.
The victim was struck three times, including two shots in the back as he tried to flee, dying at the scene. Mejia also fired at another vehicle occupied by a bystander, narrowly missing the occupant.
Jury Rejects Self-Defense Claim
The jury found Mejia guilty of second-degree murder with a firearm enhancement, attempted murder with firearm enhancement, felon in possession of a firearm, and two counts of assault with a deadly weapon involving a motor vehicle. The self-defense argument presented by Mejia was firmly rejected.
“The defendant chose a path of lethal violence over the bonds of family,” said San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas. “I am incredibly proud of our prosecution team and law enforcement partners who navigated witness hostility to ensure justice was served.”
Critical Testimony and Law Enforcement Efforts
Prosecutors highlighted the importance of the testimonies from the two young boys who were harassed, which proved crucial in securing the conviction. The district attorney’s office commended officers from the Stockton Police Department including Detective Matthew Majeski, Detective Magana, Sgt. Barrington, and District Attorney Investigator Michael Gandy for their investigative work.
Support for victims’ families was also acknowledged with special recognition for witness coordinator Alexis Soto and victim advocate Isabella Cruz.
Next Steps: Sentencing Hearing Scheduled
Mejia is scheduled to appear in court at 1:30 p.m. on June 29 for a sentencing hearing where aggravating factors will be considered. If convicted on all counts, he faces a potential sentence ranging from 40 years to life in prison, plus an additional 11 years for enhancements.
This case underscores ongoing concerns over gun violence and family-related crimes in Stockton, a community still grappling with safety and justice challenges. The conviction delivers a stark message against deadly violence within families in California and sets precedent for similar cases statewide.
The California Herald will continue to follow the sentencing developments and provide updates on this critical case affecting families and communities across the state.
