Father-To-Be's Killer Gets 27 Years -- Lefeau Asks For Forgiveness

TACOMA - Kong Liliko Lefeau, the 20-year-old Spanaway man convicted of the random freeway shooting of a father-to-be, was given the maximum sentence of 27 years in prison yesterday morning in Pierce County Superior Court.

Before passing sentence, Judge Frederick Hayes told Lefeau society needs to be protected from him.

Hayes said he took into account two 1990 juvenile convictions, including one for assault that involved the stoning of a car that contained a pregnant woman.

Lefeau had faced a sentence from 21 to 27 years in the shooting of Todd Musselman.

In July, a jury convicted him of first-degree murder for shooting Musselman the night of Jan. 31 as their cars drove side-by-side on Highway 512.

The case drew widespread attention for both its senselessness and tragic consequences.

Lefeau, according to testimony, told friends he fired a single shot at Musselman, "for no reason."

Musselman, a 27-year-old newlywed, was struck in the left temple but managed to pull his car to the side of the road before dying with his pregnant wife at his side.

Anna Musselman, who gave birth to her son Angus 4 1/2 months ago, called the sentence fair, adding that the shooting has caused her to endure "pain, loneliness and emptiness" and given her family a "life sentence."

Lefeau, turning and facing the Musselman family while crying, expressed remorse and asked for forgiveness.

"I offer my deepest regrets and apologies for the biggest mistake of my young life," Lefeau said.

Anna Musselman said she felt "an overwhelming amount of pity" for him.

"I'm sad that his life was so empty, that he finally had to shoot somebody that he didn't even know," she said.

Lefeau will be eligible for parole in 24 years.

Lefeau's attorney, Raymond Thoenig, asked for a sentence of 18 years, calling his client's actions the result of being young and under the influence of alcohol. He said intent was never proven.