Hågat, Guam – Nathan Jon Ojeda was recently sentenced to life in prison without parole, in addition to a consecutive 25 years, for the fatal shooting of Anthony “AJ” H. Mendiola. The decision came nearly a year after the January 4, 2023 shooting, with Presiding Judge Alberto Lamorena III delivering the sentence for aggravated murder with a special allegation of the use of a deadly weapon. This sentencing follows a jury’s unanimous guilty verdict three months prior.
Attorney General Douglas Moylan emphasized that this type of crime is a serious offense to the community, and that deterrence is crucial to preventing such acts in the future. According to Moylan, the sentencing demonstrates the resolve of the AG’s office in being tough on crime. He expressed gratitude towards the victim’s family and friends for their bravery in testifying at the sentencing, and offered well-wishes for their healing process.
The prosecution team, led by Assistant Attorney General Basil O’Mallan and Assistant Attorney General Sean Brown, is dedicated to upholding justice and ensuring the protection of the community. Moylan also commended the Guam Police Department for their commitment to apprehending criminals and safeguarding the public.
Court records detailed a shootout on San Vicente Avenue in Hågat, where Ojeda reportedly fired shots from a purple Jeep. A witness reported returning fire in defense of himself and Mendiola, and police later found Ojeda hospitalized with a gunshot wound to the leg. When authorities arrived at the scene, they discovered Mendiola unresponsive in his yard, succumbing to multiple gunshot wounds. The purple Jeep was subsequently located at Ojeda’s residence, where 9 mm casings matching the ammunition found at the scene were also discovered.
In summary, Nathan Jon Ojeda has been sentenced to life in prison without parole, along with an additional 25 years, for the fatal shooting of Anthony “AJ” H. Mendiola in Hågat, Guam. Attorney General Douglas Moylan underscored the significance of deterrence in preventing similar crimes in the future, and expressed gratitude towards all involved in the pursuit of justice.