A long-running Florida crime case reached a major turning point this week after a man already serving a life sentence admitted guilt in the fatal shooting of a young child during an armed robbery.
Florida Man Pleads Guilty in Death of 10-Year-Old Boy
Anthawn Ragan, now 31, appeared in court on Thursday and pleaded guilty to 14 felony charges linked to a violent armed robbery in November 2013. That robbery ended with the death of 10-year-old Aaron Vu.
Ragan was already in prison after being convicted of another murder that happened during the same month-long crime spree more than a decade ago. Despite already serving time, this case remained unresolved until now.
What Happened Inside the Nail Salon
According to police, the deadly incident happened on November 22, 2013, at a nail salon in Florida. Surveillance cameras captured Ragan and another suspect rushing into the salon and demanding money from employees and customers.
During the robbery:
- Ragan opened fire inside the salon
- Aaron Vu was shot
- Aaron’s father, Hai Vu, was also shot
- The two suspects ran out after the shooting
Both father and son were rushed to the hospital. Tragically, Aaron did not survive his injuries.
Charges and Guilty Plea Details
Ragan pleaded guilty to multiple serious crimes, including:
- First-degree murder
- Attempted murder (for shooting Aaron’s father)
- Armed robbery and related felony charges
He also waived his right to a jury during the penalty phase, meaning a judge alone will decide his sentence.
Local NBC affiliate WTVJ reported that Ragan was originally expected to go to trial on Thursday but instead chose to enter a plea.
Death Penalty Still Possible
Even after the guilty plea, Ragan could still face the death penalty for Aaron Vu’s murder. Another possible outcome is a second life sentence without parole, similar to what he already received in a separate murder case.
In that earlier case, Ragan was convicted of killing Luis Perez, a 21-year-old man. A jury chose life in prison instead of the death penalty in that trial.
Next Court Date
Ragan is scheduled to return to court for sentencing on February 4. At that time, the judge will decide whether he will receive the death penalty or another life sentence.
