The mother of a five-year-old girl killed in a freeway shooting demands harsher penalties for the suspects involved in the tragic incident
Eliyanah was in the backseat of her family’s car, heading to a birthday dinner when the shooting happened on I-880. It was a senseless act that took a young life far too soon.
This case has drawn a lot of attention, especially since it’s one of two freeway shootings involving children during the former DA Pamela Price’s time in office. Price faced criticism for her approach to handling such serious cases.
She charged the suspects with murder and added gang and gun enhancements, but many were worried about the potential for lighter sentences. Just before this incident, she had mentioned reviewing cases involving gang suspects, which raised eyebrows.
Sophia Crisostomo, Eliyanah’s mother, is understandably anxious about the outcome. She wants the suspects to face the harshest penalties possible, saying there’s no way to come back from taking a child’s life.
The three suspects, Humberto Anaya, Kristo Ayala Valderrama, and Emmanuel Sarango, have been in custody for nearly two years. They allegedly displayed gang signs during the shooting, which was reportedly a case of mistaken identity.
Sophia is concerned that the new interim DA, Royl Roberts, might not pursue the toughest charges. Roberts has acknowledged the public’s concerns and seems committed to listening to the community.
Today, a judge is reviewing evidence to decide if the case will move forward to trial. Everyone is hoping for justice for Eliyanah and her family.
