A man known as “Skelator” due to his eerie face tattoos has been sentenced to 100 years in prison for a shooting spree that took place across Nevada and Arizona. Christopher McDonnell, 32, from Texas, pleaded guilty to more than 20 felonies related to the rampage that resulted in the death of one person and multiple injuries, including a police officer.
The horrifying incident occurred on Thanksgiving in November 2020 when McDonnell shot and killed a man at a 7-Eleven store in Nevada before fleeing in a car and randomly shooting at other individuals. Kevin Mendiola Jr., 22, tragically lost his life while shielding his girlfriend from the bullets.
During the court proceedings, three victims recounted their harrowing encounters with McDonnell, who is easily recognizable by his skull-like face tattoos. One witness described dodging McDonnell’s bullets as he left the 7-Eleven, dubbing him “Skelator.”
McDonnell then targeted the witness’s daughter and 1-year-old granddaughter, threatening them with his gun. The daughter pleaded with McDonnell not to shoot them, but he proceeded to aim the gun at the baby before eventually driving away, claiming to be God and warning of an upcoming war.
McDonnell’s brother, Shawn McDonnell, and Shawn’s then-wife, Kayleigh Lewis, were also involved in the violent spree, which lasted 11 hours and crossed state lines into Arizona. The rampage came to an end after a high-speed chase and shootout with Arizona state troopers, during which one officer was injured.
Christopher McDonnell’s sister-in-law, Lewis, was found guilty in connection with the case and is awaiting sentencing, while Shawn McDonnell is still awaiting trial. McDonnell himself was sentenced to 100 years in prison without the possibility of parole until 2120.
In a written statement, McDonnell expressed remorse for his actions and acknowledged his responsibility. His lawyer described him as a troubled individual, while prosecutors sought the maximum penalty due to the heinous and random nature of the crimes.
The tragic incident left a lasting impact on the victims and their families, with Mendiola’s brother and girlfriend surviving their injuries but forever changed by the events. Mendiola’s brother expressed gratitude for his brother’s sacrifice, while his girlfriend reflected on his bravery in saving her life. The pain and trauma inflicted by McDonnell’s actions will have a lasting effect on all those involved.
