A groom was killed after being attacked by two brothers who crashed his wedding reception and started a brawl in front of the guests.
Joe Melgoza was celebrating what was supposed to be one of the happiest days of his life on December 14, 2019, but just mere hours after saying "I do", he was brutally murdered by Rony and Josue Castaneda.
According to a statement released by the DA's office, it was in the early hours of the following day that things took a nasty turn when the now 31-year-old and 22-year-old siblings randomly turned up to the party and started getting involved in the festivities.
At first, they were dancing and taking photos with the guests, but later after initially leaving the venue, they turned up again and started taunting Melgoza into a fight.
"Once Melgoza and his family jumped the fence, the brothers began hitting them all with bats and fists," the release noted, per PEOPLE. "A family member was able to pull a bat from one of the Castaneda brothers who ran into an unrelated residence. They were followed by Melgoza, who ran into the yard unarmed. A few minutes later the Castaneda brothers were seen jumping the fence out of the unrelated residence with a single bat, which was never found."
The Chino Police Department conducted an investigation into the matter after discovering Melgoza's body when responding to a report of another injured guest.
They concluded that the groom had died due to blunt force trauma to the head.
Speaking of the incident, San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson commended his colleagues who used photo evidence as well as Snapchat to catch the Castaneda siblings.
"I commend my colleagues' dedication to this case and determination to seek justice for a family who endured such unimaginable grief during a time that should be filled with love and happiness," Anderson said. "Although this conviction can never undo the pain caused by two individual's actions, I hope it brings a measure of closure to the wife and loved ones of Joe Melgoza."
Earlier this month, both brothers were convicted of second-degree murder as per a press release posted by San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office on Wednesday. It was reported that they were also found guilty of assault with a deadly weapon for injuries that Juan Bustamonte, Melgoza's brother, suffered.
The official sentencing is set for March 13.
Following the news, a GoFundMe, which has raised $41,000 so far, was set up to raise money for his funeral.
The description stated that the family was devastated by the news of their "loving son, brother, father, cousin, partner, family member and friend."
"He leaves behind his daughter Lilly who will be in good hands with Joe's family. We are asking for your support at this time for Joe's services and for his little girl Lilly. Isela, Joe's mom is devastated, heartbroken and is having a hard time processing it all."
Melgoza is survived by his wife and his daughter.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this incredibly difficult period.
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