Modesto Cortes-Serrillo found guilty of premeditated first-degree murder

Modesto Cortes-Serrillo was found guilty of premeditated first-degree murder on Tuesday in the shooting death of Santiago Diaz.

This is the case from 2014, where gunfire erupted outside of the Lin’s Grand Buffet restaurant. The convicted killer shot his ex-wife’s new love interest and then fled to Mexico.

After several weeks of witness testimonies and presented evidence, the jury found Cortes- Serrillo guilty of first-degree premeditated murder for the 2014 death of Santiago Diaz.

The victim’s family was emotional after the bailiff read the jury’s verdict.

They began crying and hugging outside of the courtroom after the trial determined Cortes’ sentence.

This morning began with closing arguments from both sides.

The prosecution saying Santiago Diaz’ murder was controlled and calculated while the defense argued Cortes reacted out of anger and heat of passion.

Cortes’ sentencing will be January 17th.