Florida Judge Sentences 16-Year-Old Aiden Fucci to Life in Prison for Fatal Stabbing of 13-Year-Old Classmate Tristyn Bailey

A Florida judge sentenced 16-year-old Aiden Fucci to life in prison on Friday for the fatal stabbing of 13-year-old classmate Tristyn Bailey on Mother’s Day in 2021. Circuit Judge R. Lee Smith took into account several factors when making his decision, including Fucci’s young age, the “heightened level” of premeditation, and that he was the “sole participant” who was not pressured by anyone to commit the “devastating crime.”

Fucci, who was 14 at the time of the crime, pleaded guilty in February 2023 just before his trial was set to start. He was not eligible for the death penalty due to his age.

“This case is probably the most difficult and shocking case that this county, St. Johns County, has dealt with,” Judge Smith said before ordering Fucci to prison for life.

Prosecutors said Fucci stabbed Bailey at least 114 times in the woods near where the teens lived in north Florida. According to Florida law, Fucci’s case may be reviewed in 25 years.

The sentencing of Fucci has been met with shock and sadness by the community. Bailey’s family released a statement expressing their grief and thanking the court for their decision.

“We are still struggling to come to terms with the loss of Tristyn,” the statement read. “We are grateful that justice has been served and that Aiden Fucci will be held accountable for his actions.”