A tragic incident in Houston, Texas, has left a Marine veteran dead after a confrontation in a parking garage. Justin Guzman, a 22-year-old TikTok influencer, has been charged with the shooting death of Anthony Sanders, 30, who was killed in front of his fiancée and their infant son.
The confrontation occurred on June 3 at the Galleria Mall. Reports indicate that Sanders confronted Guzman and his friend, Marko Cinan, 23, after they allegedly insulted his fiancée in an elevator. Following the exchange of words, Sanders attempted to leave the scene with his family but was blocked by Guzman’s vehicle. When Sanders got out to address the situation, Guzman allegedly shot him multiple times while his fiancée and baby remained in their car.
Witnesses and family members have expressed their shock and grief over the incident. Sanders’ father, Frank, who is also a veteran, stated, “We’re here for justice. Justice for Anthony and also to stand for what he stood for as a person.” He described the shooting as uncalled for and emphasized the need for accountability.
In a disturbing twist, Guzman reportedly posted a video on TikTok shortly after the incident, dancing in front of a news segment covering the shooting. This has drawn outrage from Sanders’ family and the community. Guzman’s TikTok account had gained popularity for its lip-sync videos, but this incident has overshadowed his online persona.
Police initially detained Guzman and Cinan shortly after the shooting but released them. Guzman later turned himself in to the Houston Police Department. His legal team claims he acted in self-defense, alleging that Sanders had a knife. However, police have not found any evidence to support this claim.
Cinan also turned himself in later and both men are now facing serious charges. Guzman is being held on a $750,000 bond, while Cinan, who has a criminal record, faces a $1 million bond.
The loss of Anthony Sanders has deeply affected his family, who are now seeking justice for what they describe as a senseless act of violence. The case has sparked conversations about safety and accountability in public spaces, especially regarding disputes that escalate to deadly outcomes.