Late-night violence in a California grocery store parking lot took a heartbreaking turn when a man lost his life while trying to stop a fight.
This shocking event happened on New Year’s Day 2023 and has now led to a conviction, as the court ruled in favour of justice for the innocent worker.
What Happened That Night?
As New Year’s Eve celebrations were winding down, 32-year-old Demetrius Ford and his friend arrived at the Superior Grocer on Union Avenue in Bakersfield. They were looking to buy more drinks for a party, but the store was already closed.
Upset by the closure, Ford accidentally backed his vehicle into a parked truck. The truck belonged to one of the store’s employees who was sitting inside waiting for his shift to begin. A brief argument followed between the employee and Ford outside the car.
The employee then took a photo of Ford and his car with his phone. This angered Ford, who responded by physically attacking the employee. Two other workers, including 54-year-old Juan Urvina, saw the fight and rushed in to help their colleague.
The Moment Everything Changed
Juan Urvina was not looking for a fight. Witnesses and authorities say he tried to calm things down and acted as a peacemaker. But while trying to step in, Ford grabbed him and threw him to the ground. Then, while Urvina attempted to help another colleague, Ford punched him hard in the face.
The force of the punch made Urvina go limp instantly, and he collapsed with his head hitting the concrete. Sadly, he never regained consciousness and passed away the following day in the hospital.
Legal Actions and Conviction
Demetrius Ford was first arrested five days after the attack. However, due to the need for more evidence, he was released and then rearrested in May 2024.
On Friday, a jury found Ford guilty of voluntary manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter, and assault with force likely to cause serious injury. The Kern County District Attorney’s Office described the attack as “senseless and tragic.”
Assistant District Attorney Joseph Kinzel strongly condemned Ford’s actions, especially since he targeted someone older and physically smaller.
Ford, who later admitted to being drunk during the incident, claimed someone had been “talking s—,” blaming the fight on that. But the court did not accept this as a valid excuse for the deadly violence.
What’s Next?
Ford is now awaiting sentencing, which is scheduled for August 19. He could face up to 11 years in prison for the crimes. The local community and Urvina’s family hope the sentence will bring some justice and closure after such a painful loss.
This tragic incident is a painful reminder of how quickly violence can turn deadly. A disagreement over a closed store escalated into a fight that cost a man his life — a man who was simply trying to calm the situation. Juan Urvina’s act of bravery and peace was met with cruelty, showing how dangerous uncontrolled anger can be.
As we await the final sentence, the case stands as a warning about the serious consequences of violent behaviour, especially when fuelled by alcohol and aggression.
