The jury reached its verdict after approximately four hours of deliberation. In addition to first degree murder, Hester, a reputed Bloods gang member whose street name is ‘Bandana,’ was also convicted of two weapons offenses.

Prior to this case, Hester was convicted of three felonies — obstruction of justice, aggravated assault, and eluding.

The murder occurred on June 14, 2010. At approximately 10:30 p.m., the two men were engaged in a verbal disagreement when Hester pulled out a gun and shot Ayo in the head on Astor Street, near McCarter Highway. Ayo died some five hours later at a local hospital.

“This was a senseless murder,” said Assistant Prosecutor Brian Matthews, who tried the case. “I trust that the guilty verdict offers the family of Oscar Ayo some sense of closure for their loss. I hope it also sends the message that disagreements cannot be solved with violence.”

Sentencing is scheduled for September 28, 2012. Hester faces a life sentence plus 30 years.