Man involved in fatal Sioux City shooting sentenced to federal prison

Terrance Hayes, a 40-year-old man from Sioux City, has been sentenced to over seven years in federal prison following a guilty plea on a gun-related charge. In October, Hayes admitted to possession of a firearm despite being a felon, a drug user, and a person previously convicted of domestic violence. On Tuesday, a federal judge sentenced him to 90 months in prison, which will be followed by three years of supervised release, with no possibility of parole.

The incident leading to Hayes' sentencing occurred on July 17, 2023, at his home on 26th Street, where police responded to reports of a stabbing and fatal shooting. Officers found Hayes inside the home with multiple stab wounds and another man, 40-year-old Jose Hernandez, suffering from gunshot wounds; Hernandez later died at a hospital.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Hernandez had entered Hayes' residence armed with knives, intending to recover a stolen firearm that Hayes had in his possession. During his plea hearing, Hayes acknowledged that he had a 9mm handgun along with related ammunition, which he was barred from possessing due to his criminal history.

Hayes' extensive record includes multiple convictions for domestic abuse, assault, and possession of controlled substances, among other offenses. This history prohibited him from legally owning firearms, leading to the federal charges against him.

The case has garnered attention in Sioux City, highlighting issues surrounding gun ownership rights and criminal histories. Following the sentence, the community remains aware of ongoing public safety discussions and the implications of such violent incidents.