Connor Lynn Hilton, an 18-year-old man, was sentenced to 50 years in prison after pleading guilty to the murder of 18-year-old Ethan Riley and the shooting of 19-year-old Benjamin Bliek. The tragic incident took place on December 23, 2023, in Galveston County.
Hilton had invited his friends over to show them a new firearm he had acquired, but during the visit, he shot both of them in the head. Riley died from his injuries, while Bliek survived after spending several months in intensive care.
Victims’ Families Speak
During the sentencing hearing, Benjamin Bliek addressed Hilton, saying, “Stop sniveling. Stop crying. You did this to yourself.” Bliek further expressed that he would never forgive Hilton for the grief he caused both his and the Riley family’s lives.
Matthew Riley, the father of the deceased, also spoke to the court. He described his son as a “beautiful soul, full of love and light,” highlighting the positive impact Ethan had on those around him.
Failed Defense Attempt
Hilton’s defense team had attempted to claim that his Accutane medication had caused psychosis during the shootings. However, the court rejected this defense, preventing expert testimony from being introduced at trial.
Police Investigation
The police investigation was triggered by a 911 call from a witness who heard two gunshots coming from Hilton’s home. The witness had barricaded themselves in a bathroom and later reported hearing Hilton express regret, saying, “What have I done?”
Upon arriving at the scene, authorities found Hilton visibly distraught outside the home. Inside, they discovered the two victims, with Riley and Bliek both lying on the floor with gunshot wounds to the head. A revolver with a teal handle was located nearby. Hilton later admitted that he had persuaded his mother to purchase the firearm.
Hilton’s Confession
Hilton confessed to the shooting in detail during a police interview. He explained that he shot Riley first in the left side of the head and then shot Bliek, observing Bliek raise his hands defensively.
There was no argument or dispute between the friends before the shooting, and Hilton admitted that the act was premeditated. He also acknowledged that he should be held accountable for his actions.
Legal Proceedings
Hilton was initially charged with two counts of aggravated assault with bodily injury. He was booked with a $1 million bond, which he posted. Following Riley’s death, the charges were upgraded to murder, and Hilton was rearrested. He eventually pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 50 years in prison.
Community Reaction
The tragedy has left the Friendswood community and the families of the victims in shock and grief. Local officials are emphasizing the importance of firearm safety and urging the community to report any signs of potential violence.
This devastating case underscores the severe consequences of premeditated violence among young people. While Hilton faces a lengthy prison sentence, the victims’ families hope that this case serves as a reminder of the dangers of firearms in the hands of minors and the importance of preventing such tragedies in the future.
