El Paso Man Sentenced to Life for Double Homicide of Neighbors

Mario Lechuga Velazquez, 70, was convicted of capital murder for the fatal shooting of cousins Joseph Carter and James Burton on October 13, 2023. The jury's decision mandates a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Velazquez also faced charges of aggravated assault for targeting another neighbor during the incident. Security footage captured the premeditated nature of the attack, as Velazquez shot Carter in his yard and later shot Burton while he was outside with another neighbor. District Attorney James Montoya emphasized the importance of the verdict in providing justice for the victims' families.

Key Details: • Incident occurred on October 13, 2023. • Velazquez sentenced to life in prison without parole. • Carter and Burton were cousins living on Parral Street. • Security footage and 911 calls were crucial evidence in the trial.