On October 14, 2025, after a week and a half trial, a Cowlitz County jury found Ruperto Aguayo guilty of Manslaughter in the First Degree. Based upon the evidence presented at trial, the jury determined that Aguayo recklessly caused the death of Grant Hadler when he physically assaulted him on February 19, 2023, rendering him unconscious. As a result of the injuries sustained during the assault, Hadler passed away on February 26, 2023.
Aguayo’s sentencing hearing was held on December 10, 2025. The Washington State Sentencing Guidelines set Aguayo’s standard sentencing range at 78-102 months in prison. The State requested a high end sentence of 102 months, which was the maximum sentence available to the Court. Defense counsel, claiming there were mitigating circumstances, requested a 36-month sentence. After hearing from multiple family members of Hadler, as well as argument from the prosecutor and defense counsel, the Court imposed a sentence of 102 months, followed by 36 months of supervision by the Department of Corrections.
Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Jake Lervold litigated the case on behalf of the State. Our office appreciates the Kelso Police Department detectives for their efforts in the investigation and assistance provided at trial. We hope this can provide some closure and healing for Hadler’s family.