Man convicted of shooting DePaul honor student

A reputed Chicago street gang member has been convicted of first-degree murder in the shooting death of a DePaul University honors student.

Narcisco Gatica, also found guilty Friday of aggravated battery, was accused of shooting at several people after being expelled from a house party. Francisco Valencia Jr. was fatally wounded and a second person was seriously injured.

A co-defendant, Berly Valladares, was previously sentenced to 70 years in prison for giving a loaded gun to Gatica before the shooting.

In his closing arguments, Assistant State’s Attorney Mark Shlifka told jurors to focus on Gatica’s videotaped interview with police, where he can be seen changing his story several times.

Assistant Public Defender Marijane Placek said Gatica’s statements changed because he realized he was being blamed for something he didn’t do.