Merced man sentenced to more than 30 years for two shootings, one fatal, DA says
A Merced man was sentenced on Thursday to 30 years and 4 months of prison for two 2023 shootings — including one that was fatal — the Merced County District Attorney announced on Friday.
Darrion Murphy shot and killed Renzo Arellano, who was 17 at the time, at a Halloween party on Oct. 27, 2023 in Merced.
During the Halloween party shooting, officers responded to calls of numerous shots fired in the area of Merced Avenue and Shirley Street in Merced, according to previous Sun-Star reporting. Officers found the victim, Arellano, with multiple gunshot wounds. Arellano ultimately succumbed to his injuries. Another person was shot during the incident but survived.
Murphy was also responsible for a shooting on Nov. 14, 2023 at the 7-11 store located on E. Gerard Avenue.
According to previous Sun-Star reporting, police said video surveillance from the location captured Murphy entering the store with a handgun and pointing the gun at the clerk and demanding money. Once the money was removed from the store’s register, Murphy shot the clerk in the chest before fleeing the scene on bicycle, according to police. The clerk survived.
Murphy, who was 21 at the time of the shootings, pleaded guilty to both shootings, the DA said.
The cases were investigated by Merced Police Sgt. Christian Lupian and Det. Edwin Arias, the DA said.
The cases were prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Angelica Lozano.
“Today’s sentencing is something we have waited for with heavy hearts,” Arellano’s family said in a statement.
“There are no words that truly capture what this journey has been like for everyone who loved Renzo.”
This story was originally published February 20, 2026 at 7:06 PM.
