Man receives a 100-year sentence for murdering coworker over a stolen lunch at their workplace in Virginia.
In Fairfax County, 25-year-old Bazn Berhe was sentenced for the 2021 murder of 58-year-old Hernan Leiva, a fellow employee at the Baileys Crossroads Target. Berhe, driven by anger over the theft, meticulously planned the murder over several days.
After discovering his lunch was taken by Leiva, a janitor at Target, on April 14, 2021, Berhe purchased a hammer and two knives the following day. He spent April 16 “training for the murder.” On April 17, Berhe waited for Leiva in the employee parking lot and brutally attacked him upon his arrival, stabbing and bludgeoning him to death before fleeing.
Berhe confessed to the crime immediately and pleaded guilty to first-degree murder in October 2023. At his sentencing, prosecutors emphasized Berhe’s threat to harm others if not given a severe sentence.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano remarked on the unnecessary and tragic nature of the crime, underscoring the profound loss and grief for Leiva’s family and community. Bazn Berhe received the 100-year sentence with 30 years suspended, so he will serve 70 years of active incarceration.
