A Washington man has been convicted of murder after fatally shooting a 17-year-old teenager outside a sporting goods store in Renton near Seattle.
Teen Shot While Returning Airsoft Gun
Authorities said 51-year-old Aaron Brown Myers shot Hazrat Ali Rohani seven times on June 5, 2024, as the teen and his friends were trying to return an airsoft gun to a Big 5 store.
Investigators said Myers, an off-duty security guard, approached the teens in the parking lot with his gun drawn. Surveillance footage showed Rohani backing away with his hands visible before Myers opened fire.
Police said Rohani was shot once in the abdomen and six times in the back. He later died at the scene.
Surveillance Contradicted Defense Claim
Myers told police he believed Rohani was reaching for a gun, but investigators said video footage did not show the teen reaching for any weapon. Authorities also said Rohani was facing away from Myers when he was shot.
Police noted Myers did not attempt to help the injured teen after the shooting.
Conviction and Sentencing
A jury found Myers guilty of second-degree murder and second-degree assault. He faces up to 28 years in prison and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 21.
