A man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for shooting and killing a man during a confrontation over petting a dog

SAN ANTONIO – Jordan Eaton was sentenced to 20 years in prison for fatally shooting a man over a dog-petting incident.

On Tuesday, a jury convicted Eaton under s the day after he was found guilty murder and assault with a deadly weapon. A 10-year prison sentence for aggravated assault was suspended.

The judge ordered the 21-year-old to be under community supervision, which will last up to 20 years in prison.

More than a dozen of Eaton’s family members and friends urged the jury to commute his sentence, testifying that he deserved a second chance.

Authorities said Eaton fatally shot Valentin Gonzales and Gonzales’ wife, Brittany, during an argument in December 2022.

Eaton contacted Brittany to discuss concerns about her mother and the dog, but the conversation escalated into a deadly confrontation.

Cellphone footage captured one of Eaton’s dogs approaching Brittany, prompting Eaton to shoot at her before engaging in a fight with her husband, whom he ultimately shot twice.

During the sentencing phase, family members painted a picture of Eaton as a kind and caring person.

“From an early age he was very nice, friendly and warm,” his aunt testified.

The friend described Eaton as a “solid man” and a “stand-up guy.”

Eaton’s parents expressed their condolences to the Gonzales family, recognizing the seriousness of the situation.

“I know it’s an unfortunate situation and I feel for the family, but he’s a good person and a good person,” said Eaton’s mother, Stell Flores.

His father, Joshua Eaton, expressed remorse, adding: “I wish I could switch places with Valentine so my son could have a chance at life.”

“No one wins in this situation,” said Joshua Eaton, summing up the sentiment shared by everyone.