State Attorney Ed Brodsky announced today that Erick Yoel Paz was convicted after jury trial of Manslaughter With A Firearm.  The crime was committed on 07/29/2022 and investigated by Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.  The trial was held at the Manatee County Courthouse on August 17-21, 2026.

The crime carries a maximum possible sentence of 30 years in prison.

Sentencing is scheduled for October 1, 2026. 

This case involved a group of four juveniles who met up with the then juvenile defendant to purchase accessories for firearms.  During the transaction, which took place in the victim’s car, there was a dispute about payment, and the defendant exited the victim’s vehicle.  As the vehicle was leaving, the defendant began shooting at the vehicle, striking it twice in the rear, along with two shots that missed the vehicle striking a neighboring apartment building.  One of the shots that struck the vehicle resulted in the death of a juvenile. 

The lead prosecutor in the case, Assistant State Attorney Tyler Egbert commented, “This case is a clear example of the dangers of juveniles possessing firearms in our community.  After four long years, we are finally able to provide the victim’s family a sense of closure, although they continue to process the impact of a young life tragically lost to violence.   We would like to thank the members of the jury for their time and hard work during this trial”

If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact Assistant State Attorney Tyler Egbert in the Manatee County office at 941-747-3077.