Tarzana Man Pleads Guilty to Voluntary Manslaughter

A 60-year-old Tarzana man pleaded guilty Monday to voluntary manslaughter in the fatal shooting of his ex-wife and the wounding of her boyfriend.

In exchange for Hrant Meguerian's negotiated plea, Van Nuys Superior Court Judge Joseph Brandolino dismissed a count of murder as to the defendant's ex-wife, 51-year-old Azniv Meguerian.

Meguerian is expected to be sentenced to 23 years and four months in state prison.

The shooting occurred on Dec. 15 at a home the trio shared in the 4500 block of Vanalden Avenue.

Police said Meguerian argued with his ex-wife's friend, then pulled out a gun and opened fire. The 51-year-old woman died at a hospital, and the boyfriend, a 49-year-old man identified as Michael Carver, was shot in the back.

Meguerian has been jailed in lieu of $3.5 million bail since his arrest.

Sentencing is set for Oct. 29, when victims' statements will also be heard.

-- City News Service