N.M. man convicted of killing woman playing Pokémon Go after she witnessed robbery

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (TCD) — A man serving life in prison for killing a high school student has been convicted of fatally shooting a 21-year-old woman who was playing Pokémon Go at a park.

According to a news release from the New Mexico Department of Justice, on Feb. 29, a jury found Izaiah Garcia guilty of first-degree murder, depraved mind murder, shooting at a motor vehicle, armed robbery, assault with intent to commit a violent felony, tampering with evidence, child abuse, and conspiracy in connection with the 2019 death of Cayla Campos. Garcia will be sentenced at a later date and faces up to life in prison with an additional 23 years for his crimes.

In 2019, Campos and her boyfriend were playing Pokémon Go at Bianchetti Park when they saw Garcia attempt to rob three teenagers at gunpoint. Campos reportedly tried to drive away from the scene. According to the department of justice, Garcia chased Campos on foot and then shot at her vehicle, striking her as she sped away. She was transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

According to KRQE-TV, following the ruling, Campos’ father said, “We’re extremely happy with the verdict today, although nothing is ever going to bring Cayla back. We know that. At least she’s got her slice of justice now.”

In March 2023, a judge previously sentenced Garcia to life in prison for a separate crime in which he fatally shot Sandia High School student Sean Markey at a homecoming party in 2019. However, Markey was reportedly not the intended victim.

While he was in custody, Garcia also allegedly stabbed a fellow inmate in April 2021. The case is pending trial.

Attorney General Raúl Torrez said, “I am extremely proud of the fact that we were able to secure justice for Cayla’s family, but I also know that nothing we accomplished in the courtroom will ever heal their pain or replace the loss to our community.”

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