Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Cynthia Martinez Charged with Murder in Farmington Trail Shooting

7/29/2026

37 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Cynthia Martinez, 27, of Meriden, was charged with murder, firearm discharge and evidence tampering after Derick Mercado-Labonte was found dead on a Farmington trail on March 19.
The medical examiner said a head shot from behind and a shoulder wound caused death.
Detectives say the killing occurred about 9 p.m. on March 16 after two shots were heard, and CCTV captured the car at a Red Cross lot.

1 of 1

Story summary

Cynthia Martinez, 27, of Meriden, was charged with murder, firearm discharge and evidence tampering after Derick Mercado-Labonte was found dead on a Farmington trail on March 19.
The medical examiner said a head shot from behind and a shoulder wound caused death.
Detectives say the killing occurred about 9 p.m. on March 16 after two shots were heard, and CCTV captured the car at a Red Cross lot.