A 17-year-old was sentenced to 14 years in prison for the 2025 road rage shooting that killed 45-year-old Porfirio Medina, officials announced.
Henry Gonzales was originally charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, drive-by shooting, and possessing a firearm as a child. The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office said that he pled guilty to one count of homicide.
“A brief roadside confrontation resulted in a man’s death and a teenager facing years in prison. “One reckless decision changed two families forever,” County Attorney Rachel Mitchell stated in an announcement. “This sentence sends a clear message: when you choose gun violence, we will hold you accountable.”
After nearly colliding with Gonzales’ automobile at a red light on Seventh Street and Buckeye Road in August 2025, Medina, who was riding a scooter, approached the passenger side.
Prosecutors said Gonzales, who was 15 years old at the time, lowered the window and fired a single shot, striking Medina in the chest.
Gonzales fled the scene, and Medina was transported to a local hospital, where he died.
Police identified Gonzales as the shooter using security footage, license plate readers, and mobile phone location data.
During the questioning, Gonzales admitted to unlawfully obtaining the pistol several days before the shooting. He also admitted to selling the rifle later because he was frightened he’d use it again.
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