Title: California Jogger Charged with Felony Manslaughter in Fatal Shooting of Homeless Man
In a shocking incident, 68-year-old Craig Sumner Elliott has been charged with felony voluntary manslaughter after allegedly fatally shooting a homeless man who was blocking his path. Prosecutors revealed that the incident took place on September 28 in Garden Grove, California.
Elliott, who was jogging with two dogs and a pushcart, encountered 40-year-old Antonio Garcia Avalos, who was asleep on a sidewalk, obstructing his way. According to officials, Elliott nudged Avalos with the pushcart, prompting Avalos to throw a shoe at him. In response, Elliott allegedly retrieved a gun from his pushcart and fired three shots, resulting in Avalos’ death.
The Orange County District Attorney’s Office stated that Elliott is accused of recording the incident and grabbing a handgun from his pushcart during the altercation. Garden Grove police responded to the scene, located about a mile west of Disneyland, and Avalos was transported to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
On Friday, Garden Grove police arrested Elliott based on a warrant. He was subsequently released after posting a $100,000 bail. The charges against Elliott include one felony enhancement of personal use of a firearm, which could lead to additional time if he is convicted.
Prosecutors revealed that Elliott possessed an active “concealed carry” permit. In California, authorities issue such permits to individuals who demonstrate a compelling need to carry concealed firearms. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department, responsible for approving Elliott’s permit, has not yet responded to requests for comment.
It remains unclear if Elliott has retained legal representation for the case. If convicted, he could face a 21-year state prison sentence, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.
The incident serves as a stark reminder, as emphasized by Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer, that taking the law into one’s own hands is not the answer, and there are consequences for such actions.
California jogger charged with killing a homeless man who was blocking his path https://t.co/69favuxnJm via @nbcnews
— Dennis Romero (@dennisjromero) November 24, 2023