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Anita Alvarez
Cook County State's Attorney
Communications Department
Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 603-3423
saomedia@cookcountygov.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

April 21, 2010

Two brothers charged in a gang shooting that killed a mother as she was walking with two of her children have both pled guilty and received substantial prison sentences, according to the office of Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez.

Alberto Colin, 26, and David Colin, 28, where each charged with First Degree Murder in the 2006 death of 29-year-old Helen Coronado.

The murder occurred the evening of October 7th, 2006 in the Pilsen community, when Alberto Colin was being driven around the Pilsen Neighborhood by his brother David looking for members of rival gang seeking retaliation for a prior incident.

When they reached the area of 18th and Wood, they observed an individual they believed to be rival gang member. As they approached, Alberto opened fire striking and killing the victim who was walking a short distance away with her 11-year-old daughter and 12-year-old son.

Police responding to the incident observed the defendants fleeing the scene and tossing a gun out of the window that was recovered and determined to be the weapon used in the shooting.

Alberto Colon was expected to go on trial before Judge Timothy Joyce yesterday, however he and his brother plead guilty. Judge Joyce sentenced Alberto Colin to 53 years in prison and David to 23 years. Both must serve 100% of their sentences.

The case is still pending against a third individual, Francisco Ojeda, who is accused of providing the gun used in the shooting.

“This crime was a senseless tragedy that took a mother from her children,” said Alvarez. “As prosecutors we will aggressively pursue those who perpetuate the cycle of gang violence and hold them accountable for their crimes.”

State’s Attorney Alvarez thanks Chicago Police Detectives and Assistant State’s Attorney’s John Maher and Margaret Wood of the Gang Crimes Unit for their hard work on the case.

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