In the winter of 2021, the life of Pamela Cabriales, a 32-year-old mother and real estate agent, was tragically cut short following a minor traffic incident in Denver, Colorado. On the evening of February 20th, while stopped at a light at Colfax Avenue and Interstate 25, the vehicle she was driving was reportedly involved in a minor fender-bender with another car.
This seemingly insignificant event would escalate into a senseless act of violence that would ultimately claim her life.
Following the minor collision, a passenger from the other vehicle, then 14-year-old Remi Cordova, exited the car armed with a high-powered rifle. The driver of the vehicle, 18-year-old Neshan Johnson, had reportedly encouraged Cordova to 'Do what you gotta do' after the teen asked if he could shoot at Cabriales. Cordova then opened fire on Cabriales's car, firing multiple rounds into the vehicle. She was struck in the head and rushed to the hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries a few days later, leaving behind a young son.
The day after the shooting, a Denver police officer recognized the suspect's vehicle from a previous incident. A pursuit ensued, ending in a crash, after which Johnson and two juveniles, including Cordova, fled on foot. They were apprehended shortly after, with Johnson being found hiding in a shed. The investigation revealed that the shooting was allegedly an attempt by Cordova to impress fellow gang members.
Both Neshan Johnson and Remi Cordova faced the legal consequences of their actions. Johnson was ultimately convicted on two counts of second-degree murder and other charges, receiving a sentence of 35 years in prison followed by 14 years of parole. Despite his age at the time of the crime, the decision was made to charge Remi Cordova as an adult due to the severity of the offense. A jury found him guilty of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder. He was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole.
