LANCASTER, Pa.-- A jury reached a verdict in the death of a Millersville University student. Jurors convicted 20-year-old Gregorio Orrostieta of third degree murder.
He is convicted in the death of Millersville student Karlie Hall, who died at in a university dorm building in February 2015.
"We're surprised," said Lancaster Country District Attorney spokesperson Brett Hambright.
Closing arguments were heard Monday before the jury deliberated for about an hour and 20 minutes.
"We thought it was a first degree murder," Hambright said.
A first degree murder comes with a possible penalty of life in prison. Third degree murder is 20-40 years.
Hambright said the DA's office respects the jury's decision and is going to move on to sentencing.
The prosecution believed the past history of violence would be enough to make the conviction. Messages and testimony were given to talk about the violent history Orrostieta had with Hall. The prosecution claimed Orrostieta strangled Hall to death.
The defense argued Hall died by choking on her blood following a fight with Orrostieta.
Sentencing will be within the next 90 days according to Hambright.