Brandon Pirela, 26, was sentenced to 25 years after a jury convicted him of attempted first-degree murder and conspiracy for an ambush-style shooting in Clermont, Florida, on Dec. 1, 2023. The victim, Deon Ramlagan, escaped after his car was struck about 13 times and investigators found roughly 21 shell casings. Prosecutors say Pirela coordinated the attack with ex-girlfriend Arianna Gajraj, who pleaded guilty, cooperated with authorities and was sentenced to three years in prison plus six years of probation.
Reconciled Ex-Couple Allegedly Plotted Ambush; Florida Man Sentenced to 25 Years After Firing 20+ Shots
Brandon Pirela, Arianna GajrajCredit: Lake County Sheriff's Office
A Florida man who briefly reconciled with his ex-girlfriend was sentenced to 25 years in prison after a jury convicted him of attempted first-degree murder with a firearm and conspiracy in an ambush-style shooting.
According to a press release from the Lake County State Attorney's Office, 26-year-old Brandon Pirela coordinated the Dec. 1, 2023 attack in a Clermont neighborhood with his former partner, 23-year-old Arianna Gajraj. Prosecutors say Gajraj lured the victim to a parked car and shared his location shortly before the shooting.
Details of the Attack
When the victim, identified as Deon Ramlagan, picked up Gajraj to discuss alleged issues with Pirela, a white sedan pulled up and the driver — later identified as Pirela — exited and opened fire. Investigators recovered approximately 21 shell casings at the scene, and Ramlagan’s vehicle was struck roughly 13 times. Nearby property, including a truck and a mailbox, also sustained damage.
Brandon PirelaCredit: Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney's Office
Despite the volume of gunfire, Ramlagan managed to reverse his vehicle and escape. He later reported the incident to police, and investigators linked the attack to a planned plot between Pirela and Gajraj based on messages and other evidence.
Evidence and Prosecution
Court documents and the arrest affidavit cited text messages between Pirela and Gajraj that prosecutors say show the ambush was deliberate and coordinated. In one exchange, after Gajraj expressed hesitation, Pirela allegedly wrote 'no, he's dying tonight.' Authorities also say Pirela sent threats to the victim in the days leading up to the attack, accusing him of having a relationship with Gajraj.
Gajraj cooperated with prosecutors, pleaded guilty to charges connected to the plot, and testified against Pirela at trial. She was sentenced to three years in prison followed by six years of probation, according to the state attorney's office.
Sentence
Following a jury conviction for attempted first-degree murder with a firearm and conspiracy to commit murder, Pirela was sentenced to 25 years in prison. The Lake County State Attorney's Office led the prosecution, and reporting on the case cited local outlets and court filings.
Note: This summary is based on the Lake County State Attorney's Office press release and reporting from local news outlets.
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