Long Beach Man Convicted Of Slaying Ex In Front Of Their Child

LONG BEACH, CA – A Long Beach man who fatally shot his ex-girlfriend in front of their toddler son during an argument a few days before Christmas three years ago entered a no contest plea Thursday and faces 40 years to life behind bars, prosecutors said.

Eric Jerome Williams Jr., 32, entered his plea to one count of second- degree murder, and also admitted a special allegation that he personally and intentionally discharged a firearm, causing great bodily injury and death, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

Sentencing is set for May 18 at the Long Beach courthouse.

Williams and Jerica Owens, 26, were in a domestic relationship for several years before breaking up.

On Dec. 22, 2015, Williams met with Owens in the 1900 block of Chestnut Avenue and an argument broke out. During the fight, Williams pulled a gun and shot the woman several times in the head in front of their 20-month-old son. The defendant then fled the area with the child.

Days after the shooting, law enforcement officers located Williams at a friend's home. The defendant was subsequently arrested and charged on Christmas Eve.

City News Service; Image via Shutterstock