California security guard charged with murder after shooting customer who was not wearing mask

GARDENA, Calif. — A California security guard who shot a customer who was not wearing a face mask was charged with murder by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

Umeir Corniche Hawkins, 38, got into an argument Sunday with Jerry Lewis, 50, who walked into a market and was not wearing a face mask, prosecutors said.

Lewis left the store then returned. The fight got physical and Hawkins shot Lewis as he was walking to his car, investigators said.

Lewis was pronounced dead at the scene.

Hawkins was arrested and charged with murder and possession of a handgun by a felon. His bail was set at $1 million.

Sabrina Carter, Hawkins' wife, was arrested and charged with possession of a handgun by a felon. Her bail was set at $35,000.

Both pleaded not guilty.

Prosecutors said they both were convicted for assault by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury in 2013.

Their next court appearance is Friday.

Cox Media Group