A 26-year-old man has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred last year at a Walmart in Columbus.
Manuel Mesa Cabrera entered the plea as part of an agreement with prosecutors, who reduced the original charge from first-degree murder. He now faces a possible sentence ranging from 20 years to life in prison on the murder charge, along with up to 50 years on a weapons charge. Sentencing is scheduled for April 30th.
According to court records, police were called to the Walmart on the east side of Columbus shortly before 6:30 p.m. on May 27, 2025, following reports of a shooting. Officers arrived to find Anhil Mirabal Hernandez, age 42, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Authorities say Mesa Cabrera left the scene after the shooting but arrived at the police station about 15 minutes later and told officers he had killed someone. Investigators reported that the firearm used in the incident was found in the glove compartment of his vehicle.
Court documents indicate Mesa Cabrera had been living with his mother and stepfather at the time of the incident. Officials also noted he had previously been diagnosed with schizophrenia and had stopped taking prescribed medication prior to the shooting.
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