Molina family remembers deadly shooting in Las Cruces one year later
Its been one year since Fernando and Antonio Molina were shot in their Las Cruces neighborhood. Antonio would later die from his injuries, Fernando remains disabled.
Police said Joshua Jones, 19, and Christopher D. Silva, 20, attempted to break into a home near the Molinas’ resident. Police said Jones believed he could steal a large amount of marijuana. The Molina brothers saw Jones jump a fence near the home and confronted him. Police said Jones took off running and the Molina brothers got into a pickup and chased him.
Jones fired multiple rounds striking both brothers. Jones and Silva then fled the area in the VW Jetta. Police said they later found Jones on the 200 block of west Madrid Avenue. Silva turned himself in to police later Sunday morning.
Jones pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter, tampering with evidence, and attempted aggravated burglary. He was sentenced to 13 years behind bars. Silva is free, out on bond, while awaiting a sentencing date.
“I just feel like we didn’t get the justice we deserved,” said their eldest sister Melissa Machado.
The Dona Ana County District Attorney sent a statement regarding the sentencing, writing, “Following the full investigation, the district attorney’s office found that the evidence supported the charges that Joshua Jones pleaded guilty to. The DA’s office argued for 14 years of incarceration before the judge sentenced him to 13 years behind bars.
“Obviously, the state is saddened by the death of Antonio Molina and the serious injuries that affected his brother, Fernando. Unfortunately, no amount prison time will compensate the Molina family for their loss.”
