LONG BEACH, Calif. — A 34-year-old man has been sentenced to 358 years in prison for the murder of a 17-year-old girl and the attempted murder of four others, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office. This extensive sentence effectively ensures that Troy Lamar Fox will spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Fox was found guilty of first-degree murder earlier this year. The jury determined that he had used a firearm during the commission of the crime, which added to the severity of his conviction. In addition to the murder charge, he was convicted of four counts of attempted murder related to a separate incident involving minors.
The deadly shooting took place in March 2024 as Briana Soto, a high school senior, was walking home from her job at a local McDonald’s. She was shot near the intersection of 11th Street and Lewis Avenue. Tragically, Soto died three days later at a hospital, leaving her family and community devastated.
Shortly after the murder, Fox reportedly opened fire on a vehicle containing four minors, which occurred two weeks following Soto’s death. Fortunately, there were no fatalities in that incident, but it raised significant concerns among local residents and authorities about safety in the area.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman expressed deep sadness over the loss of Soto, highlighting her future potential as she was preparing for prom, her upcoming 18th birthday, and graduation. “Today’s sentence ensures that the person who stole her future will never be free to harm another innocent person,” Hochman stated. He added that while the punishment cannot reverse the pain felt by Soto’s loved ones, it serves as a step toward justice.
Fox’s criminal history also includes prior convictions for attempted robbery and making criminal threats, which contributed to the harshness of his sentence. The case has underscored growing concerns about youth violence and public safety in Long Beach, prompting community discussions on how to better protect against such incidents.
Authorities continue to advocate for stricter measures to address gun violence and improve safety, underscoring the critical need for intervention strategies aimed at at-risk youth. The tragic events surrounding Soto’s death have brought the community together in mourning but also in a renewed call for action.