Man Who Threw Young Boy Off a Balcony at The Mall Of America Pleads Guilty

24-year-old Emmanuel Aranda pled guilty in court this morning to throwing a five year old boy off a third floor balcony at the Mall of America on April 12. Under the terms of his plea deal in Hennepin County District Court, he will serve 19 years in prison for attempted first-degree premeditated murder.

According to the criminal complaint he said he planned to kill and adult because they are usually standing by the balconies but chose the little boy instead. According to the Star Tribune the little boy named Landen remains in the hospital, he is alert and conscious and no longer listed in critical condition. His family has asked for continued prayers and privacy at this time.

Aranda's Mother was questioned by reporters outside the courthouse this morning and this was her response below: