In 2007 I, David Cariño, shot and killed two men in self-defense. There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t think about it. I think and dream about that unfortunate day, wishing I could go back in time and change what I did, but that can never happen.
I was 19 years old when the tragic incident took place. I worked as a licensed armed security officer. On the day the incident took place, I violated my company’s policy by carrying my weapon while off duty.
I went out with a couple of friends to drink and party. At the end of the night, a fight broke out and at one point someone pointed a gun at me. I shot him to stop him from killing me. His gun fell to the ground and another person with their group went to reach for it. I yelled: don’t, don’t, but he continued to reach for the gun. Again, I shot to save myself from becoming the victim. Sadly, both men died that night and to this day, I feel that I have failed everyone.
I took the lives of someone’s father, brother, son, friend. I often wish that I would have been killed. I’ve caused indescribable and irreparable pain and hurt to their families, which will always torment me.
I was convicted of 1st and 2nd degree murder and given a sentence of life without any chance of parole which means the day I’m released from prison will be the day of my death.
I’m sorry for what I have done, but saying “sorry” will not bring the two men I shot back to life. I will forever live with that cruel reality. I hope that one day the families might heal from the pain and that I might be forgiven.