Judge sentences former minor to juvenile rehabilitation in 2023 killing of Ramiro Mendoza Jr.

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- In a courtroom closed to cameras on Thursday, the man police say shot and killed Ramiro Mendoza Jr. in 2023 faced a judge.

Wearing a purple shirt, he walked in smiling and looked at his mother. He is being tried as a juvenile; he was just weeks shy of his 18th birthday when he killed Mendoza.

ShotSpotter picked up 20 rounds, and neighbors initially thought they were fireworks.

"This incident should have never happened," the prosecutor said in court.

Investigators believe the shooting was targeted, but a motive remains unclear. There was no altercation and no argument. The victim lived in an alley and struggled with addiction.

"It didn't mean he deserved to die," the prosecutor said.

In a striking moment, the former minor addressed the court.

"I am deeply sorry for my actions," he said. "I can't take back what I did, but I am sorry."

The judge sentenced him to four years and one month of juvenile rehabilitation. It would have been a life prison sentence if he were convicted in adult court, but the District Attorney's Office could not find an expert needed for a transfer hearing, in what the prosecutor described as a "gift."

Late Thursday, the victim's brother issued a statement to Action News:

"(Ramiro) will be forever missed and in our hearts. My little brother was everything to me and will always be remembered as the loving, caring brother anyone would be proud to have."

The judge encouraged Mendoza's family to find support and heal.

"I understand that this court system can be disappointing," she said.

The victim's brother said he does not want to hate the former minor, saying he just hates his actions. The former minor has 60 days to appeal.

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