Son Killed Protecting Mom, Father Sentenced

A Texas man, Terry Rivera, has received a 50-year prison sentence following his guilty plea to the murder of his ex-partner's son. The fatal shooting occurred on March 4, 2024, in Cloverleaf, Texas. The victim, 12-year-old Carlos Fernandez, was killed inside his home.

Rivera, who has two children with the victim's mother, was identified as the suspect and apprehended approximately one week after the incident. He entered his guilty plea on January 20, nearly two years after the shooting took place.

Authorities reported that Rivera had dropped off his children earlier that evening and engaged in a confrontation outside the home. Following the dispute, he allegedly retrieved a gun from his truck and fired shots into the residence, striking young Carlos.

The victim's mother believes her son died trying to shield her from harm. She tearfully described him as her protector who ran to save her upon hearing a noise.