In a chilling incident that unfolded at a Target store in Virginia, a former employee has been sentenced to 100 years in prison for the brutal murder of a co-worker. The motive? Allegedly, the victim stole the assailant's lunch from the office fridge. The shocking crime occurred in August 2021, leaving the community in shock and prompting a legal response that aims to safeguard public safety.
Bazen Berhe, a 25-year-old former Target worker from Alexandria, meticulously planned and executed a horrifying act of violence against 58-year-old Hernan Leiva, a store janitor. Berhe accused Leiva of stealing his lunch, and the ensuing confrontation turned deadly as he ambushed Leiva with knives and a hammer.
The sequence of events leading up to the tragic incident is both alarming and premeditated. Berhe claimed that the alleged theft occurred on April 14, and, fueled by anger, he spent the next few days plotting his revenge. Armed with a hammer and knives purchased the day after the alleged theft, Berhe chillingly admitted to spending the following day "training for murder."
On April 17, Berhe lay in wait for Leiva in the Target employee parking lot. When Leiva arrived for work, he was attacked by Berhe with a lethal combination of weapons. The brutal assault resulted in Leiva's untimely death, and Berhe subsequently fled the scene.
What makes this case even more unsettling is Berhe's explicit threats during his sentencing. Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano revealed that Berhe threatened to harm more people unless he received the harshest possible punishment. Consequently, a Fairfax County judge handed down a 100-year prison term, with 30 years suspended, ensuring that Berhe will spend the next 70 years behind bars.
The tragic death of Hernan Leiva has left behind a grieving family and a community forever changed by this senseless act of violence. Descano emphasized the necessity of the severe sentence, citing the unique and self-proclaimed danger that Berhe poses to the community.
Workplace violence is a concerning and complex issue that requires attention to ensure the safety and well-being of employees. This shocking incident at Target serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences when disputes escalate to such extremes. As the community mourns the loss of Hernan Leiva, it is crucial to reflect on ways to prevent and address workplace conflicts before they escalate into tragedy.
