Suspect Sentenced For Fatal 2020 Carjacking In Sterling: Authorities

STERLING, VA — A suspect has been sentenced in connection with a 2020 carjacking in Sterling that left one man dead, the Loudoun County Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney said.

The incident left 24-year-old Jose Escobar Menendez dead, according to authorities.

In 2022, Joshua Hunter of Woodbridge pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and carjacking. On Wednesday, a judge sentenced Hunter to 25 years in prison.

One suspect, Gavin Collins of Sterling, was sentenced earlier this year. Collins was convicted of first degree murder, among other charges, and sentenced to 75 years in prison.

"This case is truly a tragedy. Jose was a light to everyone he encountered. He was a beloved son, sibling, friend and member of our community," Chief Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney Shaniqua Clark Nelson said. "We are saddened by the murder of Jose. We stand united in support with Jose’s family and are committed to helping them through these trying times."

During the early morning hours of July 8, 2020, Menendez agreed to meet Collins in the area of Emerald Point Terrace. Both Collins and Hunter showed up, the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office said.

Read more: LCSO Charges 2 Men In Killing Of Winchester Man

During the encounter, a dispute occurred and the victim was shot and killed when Collins and Hunter allegedly attempted to rob him. Both Collins and Hunter left the area, taking the victim's car, according to authorities.

Menendez was later located dead in the roadway along Emerald Point Terrace near Winding Road around 3:30 a.m. on July 8, 2020 . During its investigation, the sheriff's office found the victim’s vehicle in Prince William County.

"It is most unfortunate that Joshua Hunter and Gavin Collins made the decisions causing the death of Jose Escobar Menendez. Their choices stole Jose from his family and our community. Their decisions also result in their continuing imprisonment for decades to come," Loudoun County Commonwealth's Attorney Buta Biberaj said in a news release.

During the trial, Hunter described a traumatic upbringing, according to prosecutors.

"As a community, we can feel sadness for his tragic upbringing, but it does not excuse the harm he has caused to Jose’s family and our community. There are no winners today," Biberaj said after the sentencing. "It is devastating to know that the most we can do is punish Hunter and Collins for their actions but we can never make the family whole."