Michael Anthony Leon, a 66-year-old former Antioch mayoral candidate, was arrested on January 22, 2026, and charged with the 2015 murder of his wife, Brenda Joyce Leon, after a cold case investigation revealed new digital evidence. Prosecutors allege he shot the 52-year-old Brenda on September 28, 2015, in their Antioch home, forged a suicide note, and staged the scene to mimic self-inflicted gunshot wounds.
Case Details
Brenda was initially ruled to have died by suicide, with police finding a note at the 3900 block of Bedrock Court. Her daughters, Michelle Wonders and Monica Tagas, doubted this from the start, filing a 2021 wrongful death lawsuit against a “John Doe” and pushing for reinvestigation. By 2024, a search warrant uncovered key digital evidence, leading to Michael’s murder charge under Penal Code 187(a) and firearm enhancement under 12022.53(d).
Family Background
Originally from Concord, Brenda worked in her father’s transportation company, married Michael after having their two daughters, and was remembered as a loving mother, doting grandmother, and loyal friend who cherished simple joys. Michael ran for Antioch mayor in 2012, finishing last among four candidates.
Legal Status
Held on $1 million bail at Martinez Detention Facility, Michael faces up to 50 years to life if convicted. Arraignment occurred on January 26, 2026, in Martinez; the family filed a new wrongful death suit against him on January 23. District Attorney Diana Becton praised the family’s persistence, noting cold cases remain active.
