Update on murder of former Willows student, firefighter

Glenn County Observer

In late March of 2022, Brian Herman Ceccon Gonzi, just 23 at the time, was shot in Buckeye, Arizona.

Days later, he died from his injuries.

Gonzi, who had moved to Arizona, was formerly a student at Willows High School and formerly a member of the Willows Fire Department.

At the time he was shot, Gonzi had been riding in a vehicle with one Jose Esteban Mendoza and Mendoza’s girlfriend.

Mendoza and his girlfriend began to argue, and Gonzi attempted to intervene.

Mendoza and Gonzi began to fight.

When the three arrived at a residence (presumably Mendoza’s), Mendoza went inside, retrieved a firearm, and shot Gonzi.

Gonzi died in a hospital on April 1, 2022.

The Glenn County Observer has learned that Mendoza pled guilty to second-degree murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated assault-impeding breathing and possession of a weapon by a prohibited person.

On August 2, 2024, he was sentenced to no more than 25 years in state prison, with credit given for time served (two years and two months).