In a significant turn of events, a mistrial has been declared in the trial of former Long Beach school resource officer Eddie Gonzalez, who was charged with the murder of 18-year-old Mona Rodriguez. The announcement came after jurors revealed they were deadlocked, with a slight majority leaning towards convicting Gonzalez of second-degree murder.

The trial, which captured widespread attention, centered around the tragic death of Rodriguez, a young mother who was fatally shot while sitting in a car near Millikan High School in Long Beach back in September 2021. Rodriguez, who was in the front passenger seat, was struck in the back of the head during the incident.

According to reports from the City News Service (CNS), the jury was divided, with seven members in favor of convicting Gonzalez and five against. Those opposed to a second-degree murder conviction were reportedly more inclined towards voluntary manslaughter.

Throughout the investigation and trial, Gonzalez maintained that he acted in self-defense, a claim put forth by his legal team. The shooting led to Gonzalez’s termination from the school district and his subsequent arrest and charge in late October 2021.

This mistrial announcement comes amidst heightened tensions and public scrutiny surrounding police use of force, particularly in cases involving unarmed individuals. Prior to this development, a $13 million settlement had been reached between Rodriguez’s family and the Long Beach Unified School District.

As the legal proceedings continue, Gonzalez, now 54 years old, remains free on bond awaiting further trial. Rodriguez’s son, who was just five months old at the time of the shooting, serves as a poignant reminder of the tragedy that unfolded in 2021.

The declaration of a mistrial underscores the complexity and sensitivity of the case, leaving unresolved questions about accountability and justice in its wake. As the legal process unfolds, many will be watching closely for further developments and potential retrial proceedings.

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