Raymond Antonio Rivera, a 39-year-old man from Killeen, Texas, found himself at the center of a shocking murder case that unfolded on June 25, 2020. He was found guilty on Thursday.
This tragic incident involved the death of 50-year-old Nilsa Maria Arce, who was thrown off a second-story balcony in the Henderson Garden Apartments.
Rivera’s actions didn’t stop there; he also hurled a heavy, 50-pound orange recliner onto Arce’s body.
The fatal attack occurred in broad daylight, in full view of onlookers. Witnesses reported that Rivera and Arce were engaged in a heated argument before tragedy struck.
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The commotion escalated when Arce let out a cry, followed by a thud as she fell from the balcony.
According to Fox 44, Roxanne Rodriguez, a witness who previously resided in the Henderson Garden Apartments, testified that what ultimately caused Arce’s death was the orange recliner that Rivera threw from the balcony, striking her face.
According to Rodriguez’s testimony, Arce was breathing heavily before the recliner hit her. From that moment on, silence enveloped the scene as Rivera continued throwing objects off the balcony, creating a pile of debris on top of the victim.
Another witness, Aden Puente Santiago, an Army veteran and friend of Rodriguez, recalled removing the sturdy recliner from Arce’s body in order to provide first aid.
After committing the heinous act, Rivera attempted to flee the scene. However, eyewitnesses intervened and prevented his escape. They pursued him until the authorities arrived. Killeen Police Department apprehended Rivera.
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The case progressed slowly, with initial concerns about Rivera’s competency to stand trial. However, once these concerns were addressed, the legal proceedings moved forward. An indictment was issued, formally charging Rivera with the murder.
The trial commenced, and the prosecution presented compelling evidence to establish his guilt.
The injuries sustained by Arce, including a broken neck and severe trauma, were consistent with the impact of the recliner.
After careful deliberation, the jury rendered a verdict of guilty for Raymond Antonio Rivera. The charges of murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon were upheld. The conviction marked a significant step towards justice for Nilsa Maria Arce and her family.
The sentencing phase followed the verdict, during which the prosecution and defense presented their arguments. Bell County District Attorney Henry Garza highlighted the severity of Rivera’s actions and advocated for a substantial penalty.
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The potential sentencing ranged from five years to 99 years or life in prison. The court scheduled Rivera’s sentencing for late May 2024, allowing for further considerations and the imposition of an appropriate punishment.
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