Forney, TX – A man has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his neighbor, marking a significant conclusion to a violent case. Trevor Rhea McEuen, 33, was found guilty of capital murder on Thursday by a Kaufman County jury.
Judge Shelton Gibbs IV handed down the sentence, denying McEuen the possibility of parole. Prosecutors chose not to pursue the death penalty, focusing instead on a life sentence under Texas law.
The incident occurred on May 1, 2023, when Aaron Martinez, 35, was shot multiple times on Neal Road. McEuen admitted to the shooting but claimed it was self-defense after previous harassment incidents.
Defense attorney Abigail Spain argued that McEuen believed he was justified in using deadly force, citing fear for his safety. The jury rejected this defense after deliberating for four hours following a four-day trial.
Kaufman County Sheriff Bryan Beavers expressed gratitude for the work of law enforcement and prosecutor’s office, stating that the verdict serves as a form of justice for the Martinez family.
Evidence presented during the trial revealed that McEuen used a semi-automatic rifle to shoot Martinez 32 times after a confrontation. Assistant District Attorney Robyn Beckham characterized the murder as an act of hatred.
Documents indicated ongoing neighbor disputes, including accusations of harassment and provocations leading up to the fatal incident. Court records stated that Martinez had attempted to reduce tensions by hiring workers to build a fence.
On that day, Martinez had left his property around 11 a.m. to procure construction supplies and lunch for his crew. Gunfire soon erupted, with deputies later discovering Martinez in his vehicle, having sustained fatal injuries.
Following a standoff, McEuen was arrested and later released on a $2 million bond before evading law enforcement by cutting off his ankle monitor. Authorities conducted a monthlong manhunt leading to his apprehension.
The victim’s memory was honored in an obituary celebrating his love for family, work, and activities such as horse riding. Martinez’s father expressed emotional relief following the verdict, emphasizing the significance of McEuen’s life sentence.