Gwinnett Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Murder in Shooting

NORCROSS, GA — A Gwinnett County gang member known as "Demon" has pleaded guilty to murder in a gang-related shooting sparked by arguments at a nightclub, prosecutors say.

Omar Santana, 28, who prosecutors say is a member of the street gang La Gran Familia, entered the guilty plea Thursday on the second day of his trial.

He negotiated a sentence of life, with the possibility of parole, on charges that included murder, criminal gang activity and stalking.

Santana shot and killed Malia Ross, who prosecutors say was at Liquid Lounge on Holcomb Bridge Road in Norcross on December 9, 2012 with members of the Baby Latinos 6 street gang.

Evidence presented at trial showed that, while at the club, Ross accidentally spilled a drink on Lily Nguyen, known as "Lonely," from La Gran Familia.

Familia members also were upset because Baby Latinos 6 members where showing their gang colors -- baby blue colored bandannas -- while dancing.

A fight over both incidents broke out and both groups were kicked out of the club.

Evidence showed that members of La Gran Familia decided to follow Baby Latinos 6 members to 4161 Phil Niekro Pkwy. in Norcross, where one of the Baby Latinos members lived.

Ross's mother, Ruth Webster-Lewis, testified that her daughter had come from Maryland to visit childhood friends and was staying at the home with hopes of finding a job in Georgia.

Both groups exchanged words and Santana -- whose gang name is "Demon" -- got into his vehicle and opened fire, shooting and killing Ross.

Gwinnett County medical examiner Dr. Carol Terry testified that Ross died from a gunshot wound to the abdomen.