A Texas man has been sentenced to 100 years in prison for his involvement in a violent shooting spree that spanned two states on Thanksgiving 2020. Christopher McDonnell, 32, of Tyler, Texas, pleaded guilty to over 20 felonies, including murder, attempted murder, and weapon charges.
The shooting rampage began on November 26, 2020, when McDonnell, along with his brother and his brother's then-wife, carried out a series of shootings that resulted in the death of Kevin Mendiola Jr., 22, at a convenience store in Henderson, Nevada. The group then traveled to Arizona, where they continued their violent spree, including a shootout with law enforcement.
McDonnell's sentencing by Clark County District Judge Tierra Jones to a minimum of 100 years in prison reflects the severity of his crimes. While he may be eligible for parole in 2120, it is unlikely that he will be alive by then.
Prosecutors revealed that McDonnell, his brother, and his brother's wife engaged in indiscriminate firing from their vehicle as they carried out the shootings. The violent rampage came to an end near Parker, Arizona, after a pursuit involving law enforcement officers and a car crash.
McDonnell's brother, Shawn McDonnell, and his brother's wife, Kayleigh Lewis, are still awaiting trial for their roles in the shooting spree. The sentencing of Christopher McDonnell serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of engaging in such violent and criminal behavior.
