DATE: June 5, 2024

CASE: Toese Asiata (Case #22FE015565)

PROSECUTOR: Principal Criminal Attorney Casey Sinclair, Homicide Unit

Toese Asiata was convicted by a jury of first-degree murder and assault with a semi-automatic firearm.  The jury also found true allegations that Asiata personally discharged a firearm causing death and great bodily injury.

On September 13, 2022, Nicholas Snead was at Cheers Sports Bar in Natomas. The bar was hosting a pool tournament and had music playing.  Mr. Snead bumped into Toese Asiata while he was dancing to the music.  Asiata then pulled a .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun from a backpack he was wearing and shot Mr. Snead multiple times.  Mr. Snead was struck five times, killing him.  The second victim was also struck by the gunfire.  He sustained wounds that required lengthy hospital and nursing home stays, multiple surgeries and physical therapy. After committing the crimes, Asiata fled the bar and Sacramento. Sacramento police detectives learned Asiata’s identity from witnesses and reviewing video surveillance that captured the shooting. After extensive efforts by detectives to locate Asiata, they were notified that Asiata had been located in Hawaii and was arrested in connection with the shooting. Asiata was extradited back to California to stand trial for the charges.

Asiata faces a maximum sentence of 72 years to life in prison.  Sentencing is set for July 12, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. in Department 40 before the Honorable Steve White.