Connor Ronald Mangseth, an 18-year-old from Carlsbad, California, tragically passed away on July 23, 2020. Connor was known for his adventurous spirit and love for outdoor activities such as dirt bike riding, surfing, and skateboarding. His sudden death left a profound impact on his family and friends, who remember him for his loyalty, sense of humor, and ability to find the good in everyone.
On the day of his death, Connor was at a friend's apartment on Caringa Way in Carlsbad.
He was in the company of a 19-year-old friend, Gerardo Gonzales, and a 16-year-old girl. Gerardo, who was already facing felony charges for another crime and was out on bail, had brought a gun to the apartment. He handed the gun to the 16-year-old girl, who, believing it to be empty, pulled the trigger. Unfortunately, the gun was loaded, and the bullet struck and killed Connor.
Following the shooting, Gerardo and the girl attempted to hide the gun and concocted a false story about the incident, involving two other gunmen. They spent approximately 20 minutes doing this instead of calling 911 or seeking help. This delay in seeking assistance and the subsequent actions taken by Gerardo and the girl added to the tragedy of the situation.
Gerardo Gonzales was charged with Accessory After the Fact and Child Endangerment. The Mangseth family expressed their frustration with the legal proceedings, feeling that the court system did not adequately address the severity of the situation. They were particularly upset with the plea deal offered to Gerardo, which resulted in him receiving probation and up to one year in jail, though it seemed unlikely he would serve any jail time. The family felt that the prosecutor rushed the case and did not fully investigate all the evidence.
Connor's family and friends continue to honor his memory, advocating for justice and raising awareness about the circumstances surrounding his death. They have also created a memorial fund to establish a bench at one of Connor's favorite spots, ensuring that his adventurous spirit and love for life are remembered by all who knew him.
