Jury finds 22-year-old Reno man guilty in shooting death
RENO – A jury has found a 22-year-old Reno man guilty in the death of a popular musician who officials say was shot trying to stop his friend’s purse from being snatched.
The Reno Gazette-Journal reported that jurors on Wednesday found Jacob Sanchez guilty of murder and several robbery-related charges in the May 8, 2011, death of Steven Gale. Sanchez faces up to life in prison.
Authorities said the shooting happened as the 25-year-old Gale and another friend were beating up Sanchez’s 13-year-old robbery partner during a “tug of war” over the purse.
Officials said Sanchez and his live-in girlfriend were part of a group that went on a four-hour robbery spree in Reno and Carson City.
Prosecutors say the couple was hoping to get quick cash to pay their bills.