Friendswood, TX – An 18-year-old Texas man who admitted he “wanted to commit a homicide for a long time” has been sentenced to 50 years in prison after shooting two of his friends, killing one, just days before Christmas 2023. The tragic incident unfolded in Galveston County on December 23, when Connor Lynn Hilton shot his friends Ethan Riley and Benjamin Bliek during a visit to his home.
Hilton’s defense initially aimed to attribute his actions to psychosis allegedly induced by the acne medication Accutane. However, that strategy collapsed when the court refused to admit expert testimony supporting the claim. Now, after pleading guilty to murder and assault charges, Hilton is facing a long prison sentence for his deliberate actions.
The Shooting Incident and Immediate Aftermath
On December 23, 2023, Riley and Bliek, both 18 and 19 years old, respectively, visited Hilton’s home in Friendswood. The purpose was for Hilton to show them his new gun. As they were inspecting the firearm, Hilton suddenly shot both in the head.
- Ethan Riley died at the scene after being shot.
- Benjamin Bliek survived but suffered severe injuries, spending several months in intensive care and rehabilitation.
- Witnesses barricaded themselves and contacted authorities during the incident.
Police arrived to find a distressed Hilton outside the home. A probable cause affidavit revealed Hilton admitted to shooting both friends intentionally. His chilling confession included statements such as deciding beforehand to shoot both victims, with no prior disputes triggering the event.
“Hilton stated that he fully understands what he had done and that he should be held accountable,” according to the Friendswood Police report.
Impact on Victims’ Families and Courtroom Exchanges
At sentencing, Bliek, still recovering, addressed Hilton directly, expressing his unforgiving stance.
“Stop sniveling,” Bliek said. “Stop crying. You did this to yourself. Secondly, the grief you have caused the Rileys and my own family, I will never forgive you. Pucker your butt cheeks.”
Matthew Riley, father of Ethan Riley, spoke about his late son with heartfelt emotion:
“He’s a beautiful soul, full of love and light. You can see that light in his eyes and hear it in his laughter.”
Failed Defense and Legal Proceedings
Hilton’s legal team intended to argue his use of the acne medication Accutane caused a psychotic breakdown that led to the shooting. However, the judge declined to allow testimony supporting this defense, effectively ending this line of argument before trial began.
Initially charged with two counts of aggravated assault, Hilton was granted bond at $1 million shortly after his arrest on Christmas Eve 2023. After Ethan Riley’s death, the charges were upgraded to murder, leading to Hilton’s re-arrest and eventual guilty plea.
The police investigation included:
- A gunshot residue test on Hilton.
- Confessions during interviews detailing the premeditated nature of the shootings.
- Recovery of a revolver, reportedly purchased by Hilton’s mother at his request.
Reflections on Accountability and Justice
This case emphasizes the importance of personal accountability in severe crimes, especially when initial defenses are brought forth attempting to link medication side effects to violent actions. Hilton’s acceptance of responsibility underscores the gravity of his crimes, but it does not alleviate the deep wounds left on both families.
- The victim families continue their long road of healing and loss.
- The surviving victim, Bliek, confronts physical and emotional recovery.
- Communities are reminded of the devastating impact of gun violence among youth.