Las Vegas: Father Shoots & Kills 14-Year-Old Son For Being Gay

Giovanni Melton

Wendell Melton of Las Vegas Nevada was arrested for the shooting murder of his 14-year-old son Giovanni Melton after they had an argument about Giovanni’s sexual orientation.

According to NBC 3 News Wendell, 53, shot and killed the teenager after the dispute last Thursday.

Giovanni’s former foster mother, Sonja Jones, said the father once caught Giovanni with his boyfriend and became enraged.

“He hated the fact that his son was gay,” Jones added. “I’m sure that inside of his mind, he would rather have a dead son than a gay son."

“Giovanni was abused physically and mentally and spiritually for many, many years,” she added.

“I hope they throw the book at him. I hope he never sees the light of day,” said Jones. “I hope every day when he looks in the mirror, he sees his son’s face.”

According to court records, Giovanni's mother had abandoned her children after a long custody battle.

Giovanni lived with his older brother alone in a condo complex.

Wendell had served in the military and recently worked for United Airlines. He had already faced allegations of abusing his sons and faced charges involving illegal firearms.

He has been charged with murder, child abuse, and prohibited person possessing a firearm.

Jones has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help Giovanni’s older brother pay for funeral expenses.

Wendell Melton