[chris]

Circumstances of Offense:

Michael George Bruno was convicted and sentenced to death for the murder of Lionel Merlano on 08/08/86.

According to testimony given by Michael George Bruno, Jr., the defendant’s son, he and his father, Michael George Bruno, Sr., visited the home of Lionel Merlano on the evening of 08/08/86. After listening to music and drinking beer for a while, Bruno excused himself and went to the bathroom. Upon returning, Bruno removed a crowbar from his pants and began striking Merlano. Merlano was injured, but still alive. Bruno ordered his son to retrieve a gun that was under the bathroom sink. When his son returned with the gun, Bruno placed a pillow over Merlano’s head, firing two shots into his head.

Bruno returned numerous times to Merlano’s apartment in order steal all of the stereo equipment and other electronic devices. Merlano’s body was not discovered until 08/11/86, three days later.

Bruno argued that Merlano’s murder resulted from a fight between the two. Bruno contended that Merlano was antagonizing his son, and that Merlano retrieved the gun from the bathroom. Bruno reported that he obtained the gun from Merlano and only shot him as he was reaching for the gun.

Additional Information:

Bruno was on probation for constructive possession when he murdered Lionel Merlano.

Michael George Bruno, Jr., the defendant’s 15-year-old son, who was present during the murder, was never brought up on any charges as a result of an exculpatory statement given by his father on his behalf.

[annmarie]

:disg ust: