Stockton Man Found Guilty of Murder for Fatal Family Shooting
A San Joaquin County jury convicted 23-year-old Kenneth Ernesto “Ernie” Mejia of second-degree murder and multiple felony charges following a deadly shooting that claimed the life of a family member and put two children in grave danger.
The conviction follows a trial where prosecutors revealed Mejia’s aggressive harassment of two relatives under the age of 12, which escalated to fatal violence on November 9, 2024. The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office confirmed the jury ruled against Mejia’s claim of self-defense.
Fatal Shooting and Child Endangerment Rock Stockton Community
Prosecutors detailed that Mejia taunted the two young boys and dangerously swerved his vehicle toward them while they rode bicycles. When the boys’ father confronted Mejia at his home, Mejia reportedly opened fire, striking the man three times—twice in the back—as he tried to flee.
The victim died at the scene. Additionally, Mejia fired into a nearby vehicle, narrowly missing its occupant. The extensive charges now include second-degree murder with firearm enhancement, attempted murder, felon in possession of a firearm, and two counts of assault with a deadly weapon involving a motor vehicle.
San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas condemned the violence, stating,
“The defendant chose a path of lethal violence over the bonds of family. I am incredibly proud of our prosecution team and law enforcement partners who navigated lies and witness hostility to secure justice.”
Critical Testimony and Investigation Lead to Guilty Verdict
Key testimony from the two young boys involved played a pivotal role in the jury’s determination. Law enforcement officials, including Detectives Matthew Majeski, Magana, Sgt. Barrington, and District Attorney Investigator Michael Gandy, received special recognition from the DA’s office for their investigative efforts.
Support personnel such as witness coordinator Alexis Soto and victim advocate Isabella Cruz were also praised for aiding the victim’s family throughout the trial.
Next Court Date and Potential Sentence
Mejia is set to return to court on June 29 at 1:30 p.m. for a hearing on aggravating factors and sentencing. He faces a potential sentence ranging from 40 years to life in prison, plus an additional 11 years.
This verdict sends a strong message about violent crime within families and the commitment of San Joaquin County authorities to pursue justice, with ripple effects for communities nationwide.
