Man Sentenced to 42 Years for Murdering Ex-Girlfriend at Phoenix Burger King
Gerardo Vazquez Alvarez, 30, was sentenced to 42 years in prison for the murder of his ex-girlfriend, Maria Ledesma-Ramirez, at a Burger King in West Phoenix in April 2023. The Maricopa County court convicted Alvarez after he pled guilty to second-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, and disorderly conduct with a weapon.
On the day of the crime, Alvarez entered the restaurant, ordered food, and waited for Ledesma-Ramirez, 25, to approach the counter. He then shot her in full view of her coworkers and customers. A teenage employee, who was near the victim, was also critically injured during the attack. Prosecutors revealed that Alvarez and the victim had been arguing over their relationship and their two children shortly before the shooting.
The victim’s family described Ledesma-Ramirez as a devoted mother who prioritized her children’s well-being. Her parents expressed their heartbreak during the sentencing, stating, “She guarded her children so much because they were her greatest treasure, but now she has left such a huge void in us.” County Attorney Rachel Mitchell also highlighted the lasting trauma inflicted on witnesses and survivors of the incident.
The case underscored the devastating impact of domestic violence, with officials urging greater support for victims seeking safety. Ledesma-Ramirez’s tragic death leaves her children without their mother, marking a grim reminder of the consequences of such crimes【7】【8】【9】.
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