Phoenix teenager sentenced to 14 years for fatal road rage shooting

Henry Gonzales, now 17, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for the August 2025 manslaughter of 45-year-old Porfirio Medina during a road rage incident in Phoenix.

The fatal confrontation occurred near Seventh Street and Buckeye Road after a near-collision between Gonzales’ vehicle and Medina, who was riding a scooter. According to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, Medina approached the vehicle at a red light, at which point Gonzales lowered the passenger-side window and fired a single shot into Medina’s chest. The vehicle fled the scene without reporting the incident. Medina later died from his injuries at a hospital.

Investigators identified Gonzales using surveillance footage, license plate reader data, and cellphone location information. During questioning, Gonzales admitted to illegally obtaining the handgun several days prior to the shooting and stated he sold the firearm afterward due to fears he might use it again. Gonzales pleaded guilty to one count of manslaughter, a Class Two Dangerous Felony.