FRESNO, Calif. — A Fresno man was sentenced to 35 years to life in state prison for killing his friend, authorities announced.
Christian Lavin, 33, received the sentence from Judge Leanne Le Mon of Fresno County Superior Court on Thursday. Lavin was convicted on May 29, 2025, following a jury trial that lasted several weeks.
Prosecutors said Lavin shot and killed 30-year-old Roberto Roman, a friend and fellow Marine, in the backyard of Lavin’s home. Earlier that evening, the men had spent time drinking and talking. During a friendly wrestling match, Roman gained the upper hand. Lavin then retrieved a firearm, returned, and shot Roman in the chest at close range.
The shooting was captured on the home’s audio and video surveillance system, according to the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office.
Roman is survived by his mother, brother, wife, and their 3-year-old son. His family described the loss as a tragedy they will carry forever.
The Fresno Police Department Homicide Unit, led by Detective Mark Yee, assisted in the thorough investigation. Senior Deputy District Attorney Kaitlin Drake prosecuted the case with support from Senior District Attorney Investigator Bernardo Verbera.
Lavin will be eligible for parole at age 50, after serving at least 20 years of his sentence.
