On the evening of November 18, 2020, a tragic incident occurred in Silver City, New Mexico, resulting in the fatal shooting of 22-year-old Daniel Brian Murillo. The events leading to Murillo's death were precipitated by an argument involving Cody McDonald, the father of a child with Lorraine Wood, who was Murillo's girlfriend.
The altercation escalated when McDonald, in the heat of the argument, shot a firearm, fatally wounding Murillo.
Following the shooting, McDonald attempted to conceal the firearm from the authorities, which later led to additional charges against him. Murillo was immediately transported to the University Medical Center in El Paso, Texas, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation into Murillo's death was conducted by the Grant County Sheriff's Office. The evidence gathered during the investigation was crucial in building a case against Cody McDonald. On April 12, 2024, a Grant County jury delivered a verdict, finding McDonald guilty of second-degree murder and tampering with evidence. This conviction was the culmination of a thorough legal process that aimed to bring justice to Murillo's family and the community affected by the incident.
Cody McDonald, now convicted, faces significant legal consequences for his actions. He could be sentenced to up to 18 years in prison, with the sentencing scheduled to be determined at a later date. The prosecution of this case was handled by Assistant Attorney General Special Prosecutions Johnna Walker and Assistant Solicitor General Criminal Appeals Lee Green, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the New Mexico Department of Justice in addressing and combating gun violence within the state.
The conviction of Cody McDonald is seen as a step towards justice for Daniel Murillo's family and a reflection of the New Mexico Department of Justice's commitment to combating gun violence. As stated by Attorney General Raúl Torrez, 'Cases like this are becoming too common in New Mexico, to the point that every community within our state is feeling the devastating effects of gun violence.' This case underscores the ongoing efforts to ensure public safety and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
