Juan Carlos Perez-Macedo, a 33-year-old Hispanic male, was tragically killed on June 18, 2018, in Bloomington, Illinois. He was one of three victims in a brutal shooting that took place at an apartment complex on Riley Drive. The other victims were Nate Pena and Corey “CJ” Jackson Jr. The incident also left a young child paralyzed. The shooting was a result of a robbery gone wrong, orchestrated by Sydney Mays, who targeted Pena, a known drug dealer, after seeing large amounts of cash on social media.
The investigation revealed that Mays used two different firearms during the crime: a .40 caliber handgun and a .380 caliber gun. Forensic evidence confirmed that the bullets that killed Perez-Macedo were fired from the .380 caliber gun. Mays was found guilty on all 11 counts against him, including nine counts of first-degree murder. The court proceedings highlighted the calculated and callous nature of the crime, with Mays showing no remorse.
In October 2021, Sydney Mays was sentenced to three life sentences plus an additional 50 years for his crimes. The sentencing took place in absentia as Mays chose not to appear in court. The judge emphasized the severity of Mays' actions and the lasting impact on the victims' families. Maria Sanchez, the wife of Juan Carlos Perez-Macedo, delivered a poignant victim impact statement, requesting a harsh sentence for Mays. The case remains a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and the enduring pain it inflicts on communities.
