Defendant was convicted, after jury trial, of first degree murder, vehicular invasion, and aggravated battery. Two physicians found that cause of victim's death was homicide, and evidence supports determination that codefendants were responsible. Trial evidence showed that Defendant was with members of his gang before, during, and after vehicular invasion and homicide. Defendant's involvement in the altercation and his affiliation with other offenders established accountability for both vehicular invasion and actions leading to victim's death. Evidence was sufficient to show that Defendant caused or was accountable for, and had requisite mental state for, 1st degree murder, as codefendant forced open door of vehicle and kicked victim in face or chest and Defendant squared his body to victim and punched him in the head.(LAVIN and COBBS, concurring.)
Illinois Appellate Court
Criminal Court
Murder