HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHP) — A former firearms instructor for the U.S. is expected to plead guilty in a Thursday court hearing to killing a U.S. Army reservist during training in March, according to online court records.
Sean Stark, who was 38 at the time of the announcement in September, is expected to plead guilty to killing Pfc. Krystofer Lopez, 18, on March 12 at Letterkenny Army Depot while conducting firearms training in a “grossly negligent manner.“
At the time, Stark was a Security Division Firearms and Active Shooter instructor, according to the Department of Defense.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office filed a plea agreement, in which Stark agreed to waive indictment and plead guilty at his next court hearing.
“The circumstances surrounding Mr. Lopez’s death are heartbreaking for his family and loved ones,” said U.S. Attorney Miller. “I hope this prosecution brings some relief for the family while ensuring that justice is delivered.”
Lopez’s sister, Heidi, previously told CBS 21 that the plea had been frustrating for the family.
“Do I feel justice is somewhat in the works? Yes. But do I feel like he should be free right now? No.”
As a result of his plea deal, Stark could face eight years of imprisonment along with a term of supervised release and a fine.
“What he took from us. Accidental. Whatever the case may be. It’s not enough. Because in eight years, he won’t be able to walk out of a jail and go on with his life. My brother would not be able to go on with his life. He was 18 years old. He didn’t even get to get married, have a family, become a police officer like he wanted to,” Heidi said.
Stark is expected to appear in court at 11 a.m. at the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg, according to a court calendar.
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