HOUSTON, TX – Ericka Nicole McDonald, 31, was sentenced to three decades behind bars this week for the murder of her mother in a premeditated attack last year. McDonald executed the crime by breaking into her mother’s residence, committing the fatal stabbing, and then attempting to disguise her involvement by wearing a mask.
The incident, which took place on August 16, 2021, resulted in the death of Terri Mendoza, 51. Following the stabbing, McDonald altered her appearance and returned to the scene, feigning ignorance of the events that had transpired. Authorities confirmed that McDonald is barred from appealing both the conviction and sentence, and she must complete at least 15 years in prison before she is eligible for parole consideration.
Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg stated that the homicide division successfully secured justice for the victim in what was characterized as a deeply unfortunate case. McDonald, who was residing with relatives nearby at the time of the murder, was identified by an eyewitness as the assailant despite her efforts to mask her identity.
Assistant District Attorney Casey Smith, who led the prosecution, highlighted the importance of the plea agreement which solidified McDonald’s prison term and precluded the possibility of an appeal. Further investigation revealed that McDonald had also attacked her 63-year-old aunt during the incident.
Houston police apprehended McDonald after her aunt identified her as the attacker. According to reports from KTRK-TV, law enforcement later uncovered incriminating evidence, including blood-stained clothing and a knife, in McDonald’s apartment.