Michael Leemoui was sentenced to 86 months in prison for the first-degree manslaughter of Antonio Garcia-Fonseca, a 17-year-old he shot while working as a security officer at Buddy’s Cannabis in Renton. The tragic shooting occurred on March 1, 2021, after Leemoui pursued Garcia-Fonseca, mistakenly believing he was part of a robbery. Initially charged with second-degree murder, the case ended in a hung jury, leading to a plea deal that reduced the charges. During the sentencing, the victim's mother, Luisa Fonseca-Cardena, powerfully articulated her grief, urging for the maximum sentence while expressing that no punishment could bring her son back. Judge Larrañaga conveyed the complexity of the situation, recognizing both the victim's loss and the defendant's remorse for his actions.

He ultimately imposed a sentence that he felt was fair and just, despite the state’s recommendation for a longer duration. This case reflects ongoing debates about self-defense, the use of firearms, and the repercussions of impulsive behavior. As communities grapple with issues of violence and public safety, this case serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of such tragedies.