A Collin County jury has convicted a man of capital murder for a shooting he carried out when he was 16, prosecutors said.
The Collin County District Attorney's office said Emiliano Miguel Zapatero was certified to stand trial as an adult due to the severity of the crime.
According to prosecutors, surveillance video showed Zapatero repeatedly trying to obtain a firearm from another person at the scene. After gaining control of the weapon, he shot two victims as they attempted to flee. Investigators said Zapatero fired 13 rounds, then struck both victims in the head with the gun before leaving the scene.
Following the presentation of video evidence and witness testimony, the jury found Zapatero guilty of capital murder.
Judge Andrea Thompson imposed the mandatory sentence under Texas law — life in prison. Because Zapatero was under 18 at the time of the offense, he will be eligible for parole after serving 40 calendar years, with no credit for good behavior, prosecutors said.
Authorities did not release additional details about the victims.
“This conviction and life sentence deliver accountability for the brutal murder of two men. No family should have to bury loved ones because of this kind of senseless violence. Our thoughts remain with the victims’ families as they continue to grieve,” stated Collin County DA Greg Willis after sentencing.
