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

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

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

A judge ordered the 21-year-old community supervision, which will continue until the 20-year prison term.

A dozen of Eaton’s family members and friends called on the jury for leniency and testified that he deserved a second chance.

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

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

Cell phone footage showed one of Eaton’s dogs approaching Brittany, prompting Eaton to fire shots at her before engaging in a fight with her husband, whom he eventually shot twice.

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

“Even since he was little, he has been very kind, friendly and warm,” his aunt testified.

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

Eaton’s parents extended their condolences to the Gonzales family and acknowledged the seriousness of the situation.

“I know this is an unfortunate situation, and I’m sorry for the family, but he’s a good man and a good person,” said Eaton’s mother, Stell Flores.

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

“Nobody wins in this situation,” said Joshua Eaton, summing up the sentiments shared by everyone.