SANTA ANA, Calif. – The tragic death of 6-year-old Aiden Leos on the 55 Freeway in Orange County shocked and devastated the community, as details of the senseless road rage shooting emerged. Aiden was fatally shot while sitting in his booster seat in his mother’s car, after a brief altercation with another vehicle on the morning of May 21, 2021.
The shooter, 24-year-old Marcus Eriz, confessed to grabbing his gun and firing at the vehicle after Aiden’s mother allegedly flipped him off in traffic. The bullet pierced Aiden’s back, causing fatal injuries as his mother desperately tried to seek help on the side of the freeway.
Eriz’s trial for second-degree murder and shooting at a motor vehicle revealed his disturbing lack of remorse and disregard for human life. His defense attorney claimed that the shooting resulted from a “momentary lapse of reason,” but the devastating consequences of his actions cannot be ignored.
The incident sparked a massive manhunt, leading to the arrest of Eriz and his girlfriend, Wynne Lee. The tragic event prompted an outpouring of support for Aiden’s family, with the community coming together to seek justice for the innocent child.
The heartbreaking loss of Aiden serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating impact of senseless violence and the need for accountability in cases of reckless behavior. As the trial continues, the community awaits justice for Aiden, while his memory lives on in the hearts of those who were touched by his tragic story.