In July 2024, after running away from home, Jose Rodriguez brutally stabbed an Exxon gas station attendant in Chilhowie then went on the run.

According to authorities, the 15-year-old was planning to leave the country when he crashed and was apprehended in Tennessee.

PHOENIX Police-Grade Pepper Spray | Belt Clip Included

Rodriguez, now 17, was tried as an adult without a plea agreement, and was sentenced this week to 10 years in prison for attempted murder.

According to Smyth County Commonwealth’s Attorney Phillip “Bucky” Blevins that was the maximum penalty.

“This was a savage, senseless act of violence that shook our community to its core,” said Blevins. “Attempted murder—no matter the age of the offender—is a serious crime that will not be tolerated in Smyth County.”

But although Judge Jeff Campbell issued the maximum sentence, he took Rodriguez’ age into consideration and ordered him to remain in the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice for the next two years.

A review hearing is set for May 20, 2027, when the court will decide whether Rodriguez will be transferred to the Department of Corrections to serve the remainder of his sentence or remain under Juvenile Justice.

The victim, Christian Breedlove, told the court that the attack “wrecked his life,” but he still chose to offer forgiveness to Rodriguez, Blevins noted.