Man convicted in 2013 robbery that killed 10-year-old awaits death penalty decision

Anthawn Ragan faces possible death sentence for murder of Aaron Vu during a hair salon robbery

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Anthawn Ragan, who was convicted in a 2013 robbery that resulted in the death of 10-year-old Aaron Vu, will have to wait over a month to learn if he will face the death penalty. Prosecutors outlined Ragan's history of violent crimes, including the murder of Aaron, and the victim's mother asked the judge for justice. Ragan declined to testify during the sentencing trial.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate around the death penalty, particularly in cases involving the murder of a child. It also raises questions about repeat offenders and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in preventing such tragedies.

The details

Ragan was convicted of killing Aaron Vu during a robbery at the family's hair salon in 2013. Prosecutors presented surveillance footage showing Ragan and another man entering the salon armed and demanding money from Aaron's father, Hai Vu. When Vu complied, the robbers pistol-whipped him and fired two shots, striking both Vu and his son Aaron, who did not survive.

  • On November 1, 2013, Ragan was convicted of shooting and killing a man, for which he received a life sentence.
  • On November 7, 2013, Ragan attempted to kill a man riding a bicycle.
  • On November 22, 2013, Ragan shot and killed 10-year-old Aaron Vu during the robbery at the family's hair salon.
  • On February 11, 2026, Ragan declined to testify during the second day of his sentencing trial.
  • On March 10, 2026, the judge will set a date for Ragan's sentencing, when she will decide whether he will face the death penalty.

The players

Anthawn Ragan

A 31-year-old man convicted of a string of violent crimes, including the murder of 10-year-old Aaron Vu during a robbery in 2013.

Aaron Vu

A 10-year-old boy who was killed during a robbery at his family's hair salon in 2013.

Hai Vu

The father of Aaron Vu, who was present during the robbery and shooting that killed his son.

Lindsay Ma

The mother of Aaron Vu, who delivered a victim impact statement asking the court for justice.

Scott Warfman

The prosecutor who outlined Ragan's history of violent crimes and argued that the death penalty is warranted in this case.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This case, given the number of other violent felonies, the death sentence is warranted.”

— Scott Warfman, Prosecutor (cbsnews.com)

“Your honor, I respectfully ask that this court deliver justice for Aaron. Nothing can bring my son back, but I ask that what was taken away from my family be recognized.”

— Lindsay Ma, Mother of Aaron Vu (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

On March 10, 2026, the judge will set a date for Ragan's sentencing, when she will decide whether he will face the death penalty.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate around the death penalty, particularly in cases involving the murder of a child, and raises questions about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in preventing such tragedies and providing justice for victims' families.