Orange County Sheriff deputies responded to a report of a shooting in an apartment on La Glorietta around 7:30 p.m., according to Mission Viejo Police Services.
Upon arrival, the deputies located a male adult suffering from gunshot wounds.
The victim was provided medical attention and transported to the hospital by Orange County Fire Authority, where he was pronounced deceased.
The victim has been identified as Miguel Joaquin Mata, 39, of Mission Viejo.
Deputies established a perimeter and located the suspect, Sean Jeffery Williams, 55, of Mission Viejo. Williams is a resident of an apartment near the victim, though it is unknown at this time what led to the shooting.
OC Sheriff’s Homicide investigators responded and began their investigation. Based on the interviews conducted by investigators and the evidence at the scene, Williams was arrested and booked into Orange County Jail on suspicion of homicide.
No further information will be released at this time.
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at (714) 647-7000. Anonymous tips can be sent to OC Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS (855-847-6227) or at occrimestoppers.org.
In California, the penalties for fatally shooting someone depend on the circumstances and intent behind the act. Here are the main categories:
First-Degree Murder:
- Premeditated intent to kill or occurs during certain felonies like robbery or arson.
- Penalties: 25 years to life in prison, life without parole, or even the death penalty in special circumstances.
Second-Degree Murder:
- Malice aforethought without premeditation, such as reckless disregard for human life.
- Penalties: Typically range from 15 years to life in prison.
Manslaughter:
- Voluntary Manslaughter: Killing in the heat of passion.
- Involuntary Manslaughter: Unintentional killing due to reckless behavior.
- Penalties: Vary but can include several years in prison.
Factors like prior criminal history, use of a firearm, and whether the victim was a peace officer can influence the specific sentence.
