Chattanooga, October 4, 2025
News Summary
Edwin Aldo Mendez-Perez has been sentenced to life in prison for the first-degree murder of Rosalio Gomez-Gutierrez, who was fatally stabbed in his bedroom. Mendez-Perez’s actions were premeditated, following a prior argument. The prosecution highlighted the severity of the attack, indicating a determination to kill. The murder weapon, a pocket knife, was disposed of after the crime. Mendez-Perez attempted to evade capture by fleeing to Michigan. He faces additional sentencing for aggravated burglary in December.
Chattanooga
Edwin Aldo Mendez-Perez, 24, has been sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole for the first-degree murder of Rosalio Gomez-Gutierrez, 28. The sentencing took place after a jury deliberated for approximately five hours, reaching a verdict on Friday.
Mendez-Perez was convicted of first-degree murder and aggravated burglary following a fatal stabbing incident that occurred in Gomez-Gutierrez’s bedroom in the early hours of November 26, 2023. The prosecution presented a case that highlighted a prior argument between Mendez-Perez and Gutierrez, which transpired at Gutierrez’s then-girlfriend’s residence, during which Mendez-Perez attempted to stab the victim.
After the initial confrontation, Mendez-Perez left the scene but later returned to Gutierrez’s home several hours later with the intent to silence him. Using a key, he entered Gutierrez’s bedroom while the latter was asleep and attacked him, inflicting 14 stab wounds that indicated a clear determination to kill, as stated by the prosecutor. The injuries included damage to Gutierrez’s aorta, jugular vein, pulmonary vein, and lung, confirmed by Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Steven Cogswell during the trial.
The murder weapon, identified as a pocket knife, was disposed of in a dumpster by Mendez-Perez. After committing the crime, he fled to Wyoming, Michigan, over eight hours away and attempted to alter his appearance to evade capture. The prosecution’s case framed the trial as a significant step toward justice for the victim.
While the prosecution asserted the crime was premeditated, Emily Roberts, Mendez-Perez’s assistant public defender, contended in her closing arguments that although her client did kill Gutierrez, it was not premeditated. Mendez-Perez is also scheduled to be sentenced on December 9 for the aggravated burglary offense.
Background Context
The incident brings to light the issues surrounding domestic violence and the tragic outcomes that can stem from unresolved conflict. Mendez-Perez’s actions reflect a serious escalation of a previously non-lethal confrontation, ultimately leading to a tragic loss of life. Many in the community view the case as a reminder of the need for increased awareness and preventive measures concerning such violence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Edwin Aldo Mendez-Perez?
Edwin Aldo Mendez-Perez, 24, was sentenced for the murder of Rosalio Gomez-Gutierrez, 28.
What was he sentenced for?
Mendez-Perez was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole for first-degree murder and aggravated burglary.
When did the stabbing occur?
The fatal stabbing took place in Gutierrez’s bedroom during the early morning hours of November 26, 2023.
What were the circumstances leading to the murder?
Mendez-Perez had a previous argument with Gutierrez at his then-girlfriend’s house, during which he attempted to stab Gutierrez.
What injuries did Gutierrez sustain?
Gutierrez sustained 14 stab wounds that affected his aorta, jugular vein, pulmonary vein, and lung.
What happened after the stabbing?
After the crime, Mendez-Perez fled to Wyoming, Michigan, and attempted to alter his appearance.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Edwin Aldo Mendez-Perez, 24 |
| Victim | Rosalio Gomez-Gutierrez, 28 |
| Sentencing | Life in prison with the possibility of parole |
| Verdict | Guilty of first-degree murder and aggravated burglary |
| Date of Stabbing | November 26, 2023 |
| Injuries Sustained | 14 stab wounds, severe damage to vital organs |
| Murder Weapon | Pocket knife |
| Location of Incident | Gomez-Gutierrez’s bedroom |
| Next Sentencing Date | December 9 for aggravated burglary |
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Chattanooga Murder
- News Channel 9: Jury Selection for Chattanooga Murder Trial
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Man Sentenced for Deadly Stabbing
- Wikipedia: Violence
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
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