Introduction to a Tragic Event
One of the men who was arrested for the armed robbery and fatal shooting of 20-year-old Jordan Capuchino nearly three years ago has been handed a 45-year prison sentence. Jorge Antonio Cruz, 23, agreed to a plea deal on June 3 after initially being charged with capital murder.
The Incident
The shooting took place in the early morning hours of Sept. 17, 2022. Capuchino was outside of a nightclub with his friends when they were approached by a group of men in a pickup truck, who robbed them at gunpoint. The men were reportedly looking for a gold necklace worn by Capuchino’s friend that was worth around $7,000.
The Chase and Fatal Shooting
After the robbery, Capuchino and his friends followed the pickup truck in their own truck, which was driven by Capuchino. After noticing they were being followed, the thieves led Capuchino’s vehicle into a cul-de-sac, where they trapped his vehicle between two cars. With nowhere for the victims to run, Cruz is believed to have fatally shot Capuchino, court documents say. Capuchino was rushed to the hospital after being shot, but he did not survive.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Along with Cruz, two other men have been charged with murder in the case. Daniel Moreno, who has not taken a plea deal, is slated to go to trial on Dec. 8. A third suspect, Giovanni Gonzalez, remains at large.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Jorge Antonio Cruz to 45 years in prison marks a significant step towards justice for the family and friends of Jordan Capuchino. However, with two suspects still awaiting trial or at large, the case is far from over. The community continues to mourn the loss of a young life taken too soon, and the pursuit of justice for Capuchino’s tragic death remains an ongoing effort.
