Full Breakdown
Trista Spicer Sentenced for the Murder of Eric Mercado
4/2/2026, 10:04:55 PM
Overview of the Case
Trista Ann Spicer, a 46-year-old woman from San Bernardino, California, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for the second-degree murder of her boyfriend, Eric Israel Mercado. The murder occurred in October 2014, following an argument over a meal Spicer prepared. Mercado's body remained undiscovered for nearly eight years until police were tipped off in August 2022.
Details of the Crime
The altercation that led to Mercado's death began when he complained about the beans and meat Spicer had cooked. During the argument, Mercado reportedly threw the meal at Spicer and ordered her to sit naked on a couch. In response, Spicer struck him with a skillet and subsequently cut his throat with a box cutter while he was asleep on a love seat. After the murder, Spicer, with assistance from a friend, buried Mercado's body under a concrete staircase in her backyard, constructing a makeshift tomb that went undetected for years.
Discovery of the Body
The San Bernardino Police Department discovered Mercado's remains on August 23, 2022, after receiving a tip about human remains at Spicer's residence. Upon obtaining a search warrant, officers found the body wrapped in an air mattress, concealed beneath a slab of wood. The medical examiner determined that Mercado had suffered a fatal blow to the head, which would have killed him almost instantly.
Testimonies and Defense
During the trial, Spicer claimed that Mercado had a history of physical and verbal abuse towards her, asserting that she was too frightened to report the abuse. Testimonies from Mercado's friends corroborated claims of his violent behavior. Spicer's new boyfriend, Waylan Gentry, testified that she confessed to him about the murder and expressed a desire to "get rid" of Mercado before moving to Illinois. Despite her claims of self-defense, Spicer was convicted of second-degree murder in November 2022.
Family Impact and Sentencing
Mercado's family expressed their anguish during the trial. His sister, Mahira Torres, described Spicer as "evil," stating, "You took my brother’s life, and you shattered ours." Mercado's mother, Guadalupe Plascencia, conveyed her feelings of pity for Spicer, emphasizing the pain caused by the loss of her son. Following her conviction, Spicer's attorneys filed an appeal against the sentence.
Official Statements
The San Bernardino County District Attorney's office highlighted the severity of the crime, noting the prolonged concealment of Mercado's body and the impact on his family. The case has drawn attention to issues of domestic violence and the complexities surrounding self-defense claims.
What's Next
As Spicer's legal team pursues an appeal, the case remains a focal point for discussions on domestic violence and justice within the community. The outcome of the appeal may further influence public perception and legal precedents regarding similar cases.
