A violent and unprovoked attack at a Tracy AMPM in the early morning hours of May 21, 2022, has resulted in a life sentence for defendant Rene Vega.

At approximately 4:30 a.m., Vega entered the store while the victim was working alone. He attempted to take two Gatorades without paying and demanded that the victim put $50 worth of gas into his vehicle. Despite the victim’s repeated efforts to de-escalate—offering to pay for the items and comply—Vega became increasingly agitated, threatening to kill and assault her.

After approximately ten minutes, Vega ripped a metal bar from the wall, went behind the counter, and launched a brutal attack—striking the victim in the head and face until the bar broke in half.

The victim, who had never met Vega, suffered catastrophic injuries, including multiple skull fractures, a broken jaw, blindness, a brain bleed, and other life-threatening trauma. She survived due to the rapid response of the Tracy Police Department and emergency medical personnel.

A jury convicted Vega of:

• Attempted First-Degree Murder (PC 664/187(a))

• Aggravated Mayhem (PC 205)

• Attempted Robbery (PC 664/211)

• Criminal Threats (PC 422(a))

 Enhancements included:

• Great Bodily Injury (PC 12022.7(a))

• Use of a Deadly Weapon (PC 12022(b)(1))

 On May 4, 2026, Vega was sentenced by the Honorable Judge Mallett to life in prison plus 14 years and 8 months.

District Attorney Ron Freitas stated:

"This was a calculated and extraordinarily violent attack on a completely innocent victim simply doing her job. The level of brutality in this case is difficult to comprehend. Because of the relentless work of law enforcement and our prosecution team, this defendant will spend the rest of his life where he can no longer harm anyone. We remain committed to standing with victims and ensuring justice is served."

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office recognizes the outstanding investigative work of Tracy PD Detective Eric Smith, whose efforts were instrumental in this case. We also thank Deputy District Attorney Mahjoubeh Foolad for her prosecution of this case, as well as our District Attorney Investigator team for providing support throughout the trial.

This case underscores the devastating impact of senseless violence and our commitment to holding violent offenders accountable.