2 Brothers Beat California Groom to Death at His Wedding Reception After Crashing the Celebration

Two brothers who murdered a groom just hours after he said “I do” in 2019 have been convicted.

Joe Melgoza wascelebrating hisnuptials on Dec. 14, 2019, when he wasattacked at his wedding reception, which was held in the backyard of a family member in Chino, California, KTLA reported at the time.

In the wee hours of Dec. 15, Melgoza was in newlywed bliss at his wedding reception when the uninvited Castaneda brothers showed up.

gofundme

They left the party but later came back through a trail behind the home. The groom had no idea they had returned. The brothers stood behind a fence and taunted Melgoza, telling him to jump to the other side, the D.A.’s office said.

Rony Castaneda Ramirez, left, and Josue Castaneda Ramirez.Chino Police Department

The Chino Police Department first got to the scene to respond to a family member who had been hurt. But they later discovered Melgoza’s body in the same yard the Castaneda brothers had fled to. Melgoza had died “within minutes” of suffering blunt force trauma to the head.

Josue told police he was never at the reception, however, a photobooth image of him and Rony posing with a female guest was found in his front pocket after his arrest, authorities noted. Snapchat also played a role in helping authorities find Josue and Rony.

The brothers are set to be sentenced on March 13.

It is not clear who is representing Rony and Josue to comment on their behalf.

AGoFundMecreated after his death to raise money for his funeral described the victim as “a loving son, brother, father, cousin, partner, family member and friend.”

“He always had a way to make you smile. He was there for you at any time to give a helping hand. He was taken from us in such a tragic and horrific way.”

“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.”

source: people.com