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Sandra Yi ReportingA man convicted in the drive-by shooting death of a teenager will serve five years to life in prison for the crime.
Last May Gene Garza shot and killed the victim on a busy road in broad daylight. The victim lost consciousness and sideswiped two cars before crashing head-on into another. Police say an argument started the deadly chain of events. Garza's family maintains he fired in self-defense.
Reporter: "Did you shoot him? You turned yourself in."
Gene Garza: "I'm wanted for questioning man."
Gene Garza had plenty to say to reporters as officers led him to jail last May.
Reporter: "Over a fight? You shot him over a fight?"
Gene Garza: "Man, you crazy. DO some more investigative reporting."
But Garza was convicted of the crime. According to the Deseret Morning News, the judge, before sentencing Garza, said she found it chilling that during his trial he showed no remorse for taking a human life or threatening the lives of three other people.
Judge Judith Atherton, Third District Court: "You repeatedly justified it, and acted with a degree of pride in your behavior. That tells me you do not belong in society,"
A reporter for the Deseret Morning News says Garza seemed calm, even cheerful as he was led out of court. There was a different reaction from his family.
Anna Peralta, Garza's Mother: "It's unfair. It's very unfair. My son did what he had to do to protect himself."
She says the victim, Guillermo Padilla, often threatened her son.
Hector Rodrigues says his nephew didn't deserve to die.
Hector Rodrigues, Victim's Uncle: "(Translation from Spanish) We think he was a good guy. He was really good and he needed to live. He was one good kid, and he was just starting his life."
Padilla was 17-years old.
Hector Rodrigues: "Only God can take a life from somebody. No one else can take a life."
Garza was also sentenced on four felony counts of criminal mischief in connection with the shooting. His family says he will appeal.
