Kevin King, 44, was sentenced on Friday to five years and four months in state prison for the death of 51-year-old Victor Becerra.

King was convicted of involuntary manslaughter after he accidentally shot and killed Becerra while cleaning his gun, Law & Crime reports.

The tragic incident occurred on May 15, 2023, when Becerra was holding his grandchild outside his home.

According to a press release, the tragic incident happened on Jan. 2, 2023.

“King was cleaning his gun, and a bullet pierced a common wall, fatally striking Becerra as he sat at his kitchen table holding the baby girl,” Law & Crime reports.

Prosecutors described King’s actions as reckless, with District Attorney Jessica Harris stating, “His failure to properly handle a firearm led to a senseless loss of life.” Defense attorneys argued it was a tragic accident, with King expressing deep remorse during the sentencing. “I never meant to hurt anyone,” King said, breaking down in court.

“A loving grandfather fatally wounded while cradling his grandchild,” Melinda Taylor, a victim services advocate, read for Becerra’s cousin. “The image of Victor dropping his granddaughter as he was shot is one that haunts us all.”

The victim’s family however forgives King.

“Before anything, I forgive him,” Beccera’s widow, Leticia Ramirez, said through a Spanish interpreter.