Prosecutors in California have filed charges against a jogger accused of recording himself killing a homeless man obstructing the sidewalk. Craig Sumner Elliott, 68, reportedly encountered 40-year-old Antonio Garcia Avalos sleeping on the sidewalk on September 28 while jogging with his two dogs and pushing a cart.
Elliott allegedly tried to wake Avalos by nudging him with the pushcart. When Avalos yelled at Elliott to leave him alone, prosecutors claim that Elliott, who was filming the encounter, took a gun from his cart. In response to Avalos standing up and throwing a shoe, Elliott reportedly ducked and shot Avalos three times. Avalos succumbed to his injuries.
Elliott was arrested on November 17th, despite possessing a valid concealed carry permit issued by the local sheriff’s office. Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer emphasized the tragic outcome of a minor sidewalk obstruction, stating, “This case is a stark reminder that taking the law into your own hands is never the answer and that there are consequences for your actions.”
Prosecutors revealed on Monday that, along with felony personal firearm use enhancement charges, Elliott faces charges of voluntary manslaughter for the fatal shooting. He was granted a $100,000 bail and released, but if found guilty on all counts, he could face up to 21 years in prison.
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