Renton, Washington – A 16-year-old boy faces a bail set at $1 million for his alleged involvement in the shooting that led to the death of another teen in Renton over the weekend. The suspect was reportedly on electronic home monitoring at the time of the incident, following a previous shooting he was linked to. The tragic incident took place near Highlands Elementary School on April 13.
The victim, identified as 15-year-old Jaime Villeda by close friends, was shot and killed in the incident. The shooter, also a teenager, called 911 after the shooting and remained at the scene until emergency responders arrived and transported Villeda to the hospital. Police confirmed that the victim and suspect were acquainted.
Authorities revealed that the suspect used a “ghost gun,” a firearm that is untraceable, to carry out the shooting. Prosecutor Logan Bryant mentioned that the suspect was under electronic home monitoring due to his involvement in a drive-by shooting back in November 2023. It is believed that the victim in the recent incident was one of the targets in the previous shooting.
During the suspect’s initial court appearance, Judge Veronica Galvan highlighted the conditions that were supposed to be followed under electronic home monitoring, including no contact with the deceased victim and no possession of firearms. The judge determined that there was probable cause to charge the suspect with second-degree manslaughter and second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm, with a court date set for April 18.
Renton Police Chief Jon Schuldt expressed concern over the rise in teen-related crime, noting a recent uptick in incidents involving teenagers. He emphasized the need for consequences and accountability for such behavior to ensure the safety of the community. The tragic loss of Jaime Villeda has left his friends and loved ones devastated, with many remembering him as a caring and joyful individual.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Villeda’s family in the wake of the tragedy. The community continues to mourn the loss of a young life and grapple with the impact of teen crime in the area. The suspect is currently awaiting further legal proceedings as the investigation into the shooting continues.