Full Breakdown
Las Vegas Robbery Leads to Death of WWII Veteran
2/22/2026, 9:51:02 PM
Incident Overview
On March 1, 2023, Herbert Muskin, a 101-year-old World War II veteran, died following a high-speed chase initiated by two women, Lorraine Alvarado, 34, and Kassandra Alvarez, 32, who had just committed a robbery. The pair robbed a sporting goods store at gunpoint and subsequently carjacked a vehicle, leading to a pursuit by law enforcement. Alvarez, the driver, crashed into Muskin’s vehicle, which was stopped at a red light in Henderson, Nevada. Muskin sustained blunt force injuries from the collision and later died from aspiration pneumonia, as determined by medical professionals.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Both Alvarado and Alvarez faced serious charges following the incident. Initially indicted on murder charges, they reached plea deals in January 2026, pleading guilty to lesser offenses. Alvarez was convicted of robbery with a deadly weapon, reckless driving resulting in substantial bodily harm, and grand larceny, while Alvarado pleaded guilty to robbery with a deadly weapon, resisting a peace officer, and assault on a protected person. During their sentencing on February 18, 2026, Judge Michelle Leavitt did not dismiss the murder charges despite the defendants' arguments regarding the circumstances surrounding Muskin's death.
Defendants' Statements and Accountability
In court, Alvarado and Alvarez expressed their views on the incident. Alvarado attributed the escalation of events to alleged police brutality, stating, “A lot of things could have been prevented that night if the high-speed chase would have been called off.” Alvarez, while acknowledging the grief of Muskin’s family, stated, “I pray that you may have peace and forgiveness in your hearts.” However, both women refrained from taking full responsibility for the consequences of their actions. Alvarado remarked, “I did not murder no one, but I know that I hurt their family,” indicating a reluctance to fully accept accountability.
Remembering Herbert Muskin
Herbert Muskin was remembered fondly by his family and community. His son, Jon Muskin, highlighted his father's legacy as a hero who served as a US Army chaplain during World War II and later became an orthodontist, providing free dental care to those in need, including disabled children. Jon Muskin poignantly reflected on the tragedy, stating, “He survived a century of living and he did not survive a trip to Costco,” emphasizing the profound impact of the incident on their family.
Criticism and Opposition
The defense attorneys for Alvarado and Alvarez argued that an autopsy should have been conducted, as Muskin's death certificate cited global geriatric decline as a significant condition contributing to his death. This claim was part of their broader defense strategy, which sought to mitigate the severity of the charges against the defendants.
Verbatim Quotes
- “A lot of things could have been prevented that night if the high-speed chase would have been called off,” — Lorraine Alvarado
- “I pray that you may have peace and forgiveness in your hearts and may you leave here with lighter spirits,” — Kassandra Alvarez
- “He survived a century of living and he did not survive a trip to Costco,” — Jon Muskin
This case highlights the tragic consequences of criminal actions and the complex interplay of accountability, law enforcement response, and the lasting impact on victims' families.
