A man who confessed to killing his parents and two of their friends and wounding three people in a highway shooting pleaded guilty to murder and other charges on Monday. Joseph Eaton, 35, received a life sentence for the violent crimes he committed in Maine last year.
Eaton never provided a reason for his actions to law enforcement officials. Victims' families and friends spoke in court, expressing their pain and trauma. One woman described the horrific scene she encountered at the crime scene, while a father recounted the terror of his daughter being wounded in the highway shooting.
Witnesses shared their experiences of finding bullet holes in their cars and suffering from sleepless nights and nightmares due to Eaton's actions. Kristina DeRaps, a relative of one of the victims, called Eaton 'a selfish little boy' for killing those who loved him.
Eaton expressed disbelief and regret for his actions, stating that he wakes up every day regretting what he did. He acknowledged the severity of his crimes and apologized, saying he believes he deserves worse.
Eaton confessed to fatally shooting his parents, their friends, and their dog at their home in Bowdoin, as well as firing at vehicles on Interstate 295 in Yarmouth. The shootings occurred shortly after his release from prison for unrelated crimes.
Authorities described the shootings as an 'attack on the soul of our state.' Eaton faced multiple charges, including four counts of murder and aggravated attempted murder, to which he pleaded guilty.
His defense lawyer stated that Eaton chose to take responsibility for his actions by pleading guilty. Despite the violent crimes, Eaton was described as a kind and compassionate man by his lawyer.
The case has left many struggling to comprehend the senseless tragedy. Eaton, who has a criminal history in Florida and Kansas, remains in jail serving his life sentence.
