TUSCALOOSA, AL – A horrific act of domestic violence culminated in a courtroom sentencing this week, as Angelica Quintana, 31, was ordered to spend the rest of her life in prison for the deliberate killing of her boyfriend, Dennis Melton, 27, on a Tuscaloosa highway.
The harrowing case dates back to February 2022, when authorities initially responded to what appeared to be a tragic traffic accident on Interstate 59/20. However, it quickly turned into a chilling tale of intentional murder as evidence surfaced that Quintana had run over Melton with full intent.
Upon arrival at the scene, Alabama State Troopers discovered Melton trapped beneath Quintana’s vehicle. Despite being urgently transported to a nearby hospital, Melton succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. The scene painted a grim picture when it was revealed through witness testimonies and video recordings that Melton’s demise was no accident but an act of malice.
During the trial, witnesses described the chilling sequence of events where Quintana intentionally veered her car across multiple lanes to strike Melton, who was clad in a bright orange safety vest, as he walked along the road. Further witness accounts recounted Quintana not just hitting Melton but repeatedly running him over, dragging him across the asphalt, a scene which left unmistakable marks on the highway.
The courtroom was particularly moved by testimony from bystanders who overheard Quintana make a disturbing promise to Melton prior to the attack, threatening his life if he dared exit the vehicle. This statement was reportedly made in the presence of at least ten witnesses, including Melton’s sister.
One of the witnesses had filmed the incident, capturing the heartrending moments of Melton’s final breaths while trapped under Quintana’s car. The video was a pivotal piece of evidence that showcased Quintana’s lack of action to help Melton or to seek emergency aid, a factor that weighed heavily during sentencing.
Quintana’s trial concluded with her conviction on February 14, with her lack of remorse and failure to call for emergency assistance cited by officials. Judge Daniel Pruet’s decision to hand down a life sentence was partly influenced by these aggravating details, as noted by Chief Assistant District Attorney Paula Whitney in her statement post-sentencing.
The community of Tuscaloosa remains affected by the tragedy, reflecting on the preventable nature of the violent end to Melton’s life. This case stands as a stark reminder of the potential for violence in personal relationships and the importance of addressing warning signs before such tragedies unfold.