Ramona, CA – A 26-year-old California man has been sentenced to 47 years to life in prison for murdering his “best friend,” stealing the victim’s belongings, and attempting to cover up the crime, authorities announced Tuesday.
Brutal Murder of a Friend
Sean Joseph Hawksworth, 26, executed Eduardo Aguilar Alba, also 26, while he slept in his Ramona apartment on October 20, 2023, prosecutors said. Hawksworth then stuffed Alba’s body into a trash can, stole his Camaro, designer sneakers, and clothing, and stripped the apartment of other valuables.
“This was a willful, deliberate and premeditated murder,” San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said. “I hope that today’s sentence brings a measure of closure and justice for the victims left behind in the wake of this violent crime.”
Court Conviction and Sentencing
Hawksworth was convicted in May on multiple charges, including murder, residential burglary, grand theft, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. San Diego Superior Court Judge Patricia Cookson emphasized the “high degree of callousness” in Hawksworth’s actions, particularly given that he robbed the victim’s home after the killing.
Post-Crime Actions
Authorities reported that Hawksworth returned to the crime scene multiple times to cover up his actions. He also continued drug-dealing activities, acting “as though nothing had happened.” Investigators later recovered the stolen property from a storage unit Hawksworth had rented and transferred into his brother’s name.
Family Reaction
Alba’s parents spoke outside the courthouse, describing their son as “quiet” but with a big heart.”
“This person who took his life was supposedly his best friend, because they were always together. I don’t know why he would do this,” Alba’s father told.
During the sentencing, Hawksworth addressed the court, expressing what he called his “sincere condolences” to the victim’s family.
“Eddie was my friend. I never foresaw this happening when I met him. I never wanted this to happen,” he reportedly said.
Community and Legal Implications
The murder highlights the risks of violence among close acquaintances, as well as the broader impacts on the community when crimes involve theft, firearms, and attempts to conceal evidence. Legal experts note that the lengthy sentence reflects both premeditation and post-crime callousness, sending a clear warning about consequences for violent crimes in California.
Conclusion
With Hawksworth now serving 47 years to life, Alba’s family seeks closure, while authorities continue to stress the importance of community vigilance and caution around interpersonal disputes.
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