Hawaiian Gardens Man Charged With Three Counts of Murder

Joseph Mercado, 26, was charged with three counts of murderon Monday, May 10, in Los Angeles Superior Court. If convicted, Mercado would be eligible for the death penalty as a result of special circumstances included in the charges.

Mercado is accused of killing his former girlfriend, the girlfriend's brother, and her father in a shooting spree at the Hawaiian Gardens, CA, home of the girlfriend's family. Authorities say that last Thursday, Mercado went from room to room in the home firing an AK-47 before he was shot by the responding officers. Mercado and his ex were involved in a custody dispute over the couple's infant son. Also present at the home that day was the ex-girlfriend's mother, who was allegedly wounded in the attack.

Mercado has also been charged with attempted murder and child abuse, among other crimes. His arraignment was continued until May 24 in Norwalk, CA.

If you have been charged with a serious crime, including murder, speak with a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney at Schwartz & Naderi now. Contact us to discuss your case and rights!