Gloria Montes Jr., a 41-year-old woman from Pico Rivera, California, tragically died on December 10, 2016, after being shot. The incident that led to her death occurred in 2011 when she was shot in the head while sleeping in her bedroom. Despite surviving the initial attack and being able to testify at a preliminary hearing in 2012, Gloria's condition deteriorated over the years, and she remained in a vegetative state until her death in 2016.
The shooting was a result of gang-related violence. Arthur Lerma, a member of the Pico Nuevo street gang, was identified as the shooter. He targeted Gloria because he believed she had cooperated with law enforcement in a 2002 robbery case that resulted in his imprisonment. On the night of the shooting, Lerma, accompanied by another gang member, fired several shots into Gloria's bedroom. A witness heard Lerma shout Gloria's nickname, "Gogo," before the shooting.
The legal proceedings following the shooting were extensive. Arthur Lerma was found guilty of attempted murder, shooting at an inhabited dwelling, and possession of a firearm by a felon. He was sentenced to 60 years to life in prison. Michelle Caldera, another gang member involved in the crime, was also convicted and received a prison term of 32 years to life. A third defendant, Jose Trejo, testified against Lerma and Caldera and was sentenced to eight years in state prison.
Gloria's death highlighted the ongoing issue of gang violence in Pico Rivera and the devastating impact it has on the community. The case also underscored the challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing gang-related crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice.
