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Gunman Admits Murder-For-Hire Hit on Behalf of Jilted Philadelphia Woman

By Tony Hanson

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A second person today pleaded guilty in connection with a murder-for-hire hit on behalf of a scorned lover.

Veteran Septa trolley driver Aaron Hayes, in the work uniform he wore proudly, was gunned down outside his house as he left for work early on the morning of May 31st, 2012.

Hayes, 52, had been set up by his longtime girlfriend.  The motive: he wanted to move on.

According to prosecutor Gail Fairman, defendant Desiree Hicks contacted their tough-talking mechanic, Miguel Gonzalez, who later lay in wait inside the victim's car.  When Hayes opened the door, Gonzalez shot him, then, according to a witness, stood over him and fired two more times.

Gonzalez, 39, has now pleaded guilty as part of a deal that brings him a 30-60 year sentence.

"I'm content with everything," said the murder victim's son, Aaron Hayes Jr., following today's court proceeding.  "I thought it would be a mandatory life sentence but, based on his age and the number of years that was given, I am definitely content in knowing he will never be out on the street again."

Hicks, 58, who planned to pay the killer with money stolen from the victim, pleaded guilty earlier and will be sentenced in June.

 

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