The man who killed 4-year old Lilly Garcia in a fit of road rage has confessed to the horrible act.
Tony Torrez admitted to opening fire on the freeway, fatally shooting 4-year old Lilly as she and her brother sat in the back of her dad's pickup truck on Tuesday. The police received information on the suspect from an anonymous caller. They provided the police with Torrez's name. The authorities used this information plus other tips to pursue the suspect. Torrez was apprehended on Wednesday. He was charged with an open count of murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, assault with the intent to commit a violent felony, shooting at or from a motor vehicle, child abuse, child abuse resulting in death and tampering with evidence. His bail is set at $650,000 cash-only bond, reports CNN.
Allen Garcia had just picked up Lilly and her 7-year old brother from school. Police Spokesman Officer Simon Drobik tells CNN the incident started Tuesday afternoon when two vehicles cut each other off on I-40.
"A short while later, one of the drivers pulled up to the vehicle carrying the girl and opened fire," Drobik said.
The police believe the shooting occurred over a 2-mile stretch, meaning the suspect fired multiple shots. The suspect is said to be the only person in his vehicle at the time of the incident.
City officials and authorities were taken aback by the tragedy.
"There were two children in this truck that this animal decided to open fire on just because he happened to get cut off on the freeway," said Tanner Tixier, another police spokesman.
The city mayor, Richard Berry, offered a reward for anyone who could pinpoint the perpetrator who took the young girls life.
"I'm offering $10k to find the individual responsible for the murder of 4 y/o Lilly Garcia. Call 242-COPS w/ any information.#JusticeForLilly," he tweeted.
The internet has since expressed a range of emotions over the ordeal - outrage, utter shock, and words of kindness. They have created the hastag #JusticeForLilly for those who wish to sound off on the matter.
_mizzfo22 "I hope the scumbag that took this innocent baby's life gets what he deserves. #JusticeForLilly"
@olviaaxx_ "rest easy to the beautiful baby girl God received yesterday #JusticeForLilly"
@arianaloves_27 "#JusticeforLilly This beautiful angel was taken way to soon"
The family ha since launched a Go Fund me account raise money for Lilly's service. They have received over $67,000. If interested in donating, the Go Fund me account can be accessed here.
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