Winona Man’s Murder Conviction Upheld

St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Minnesota Supreme Court court has upheld a Winona man's 1st-degree murder conviction.

52-year-old Ricky Waiters was found guilty of both 1st and 2nd-degree murder and attempted murder charges for opening fire on a group of people gathered outside a Winona bar three years ago. One of the bullets struck and killed 53-year-old Robert Johnson, who was a well-known local blues musician. A second man was also hit by a bullet, but his wounds were not life-threatening.

The shooting occurred shortly after Waiters was told he needed to move his car because he had parked in a no-parking zone.

In affirming his conviction, the Supreme Court rejected Waiters' claims that there was insufficient evidence and misconduct by the prosecution. He is currently serving a life sentence, plus 15-years, and will have to make it into his 90's to be eligible for release.

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