Man Sentenced To Prison In 2010 Santa Ana Bakery Murder
SANTA ANA (CBSLA.com) — A 38-year-old man was sentenced to prison Friday for fatally shooting a victim in a bakery while he prepared a cup of coffee.
According to the Orange County District Attorney's Office, Israel Pena Lopez was ordered to spend 80 years to life in state prison.
He was found convicted Sept. 17 of one felony count of murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. He also faced a sentencing enhancement for the personal discharge of a firearm causing death.
His co-defendant, Frankie Esteban Giraldo, 32, was previously charged with murder but was found not guilty in the case.
According to the Santa Ana Police Department, Lopez and Giraldo drove separately Oct. 13, 2010, around 7:40 p.m. to the Panaderia La Chapina bakery on Edinger Avenue in Santa Ana.
After parking both vehicles in separate locations, the two men entered the bakery at the same time.
Lopez shot Alejandro Sanchez, 32, several times in his back while he prepared his coffee at a counter. He died as a result of injuries sustained in the crime.
Giraldo and Lopez both left after the shooting; however, Lopez returned several moments later. He attempted to shoot the victim, who was lying on the floor, but his firearm failed to discharge. He then fled.
Witness called 911 and officers responded to the scene.
Lopez also pleaded guilty Friday to one felony count each of shooting at an occupied vehicle in an unrelated case. He faced a sentencing enhancement for committing the crime for the benefit of a criminal street gang.
According to the Orange County District Attorney's Office, Lopez will serve 15 years for this case concurrent to the 80 years.
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