Earlier this year, an argument between Adula Harris and his children’s mother...

Earlier this year, an argument between Adula Harris and his children’s mother escalated, leading to Harris strangling the victim and killing her father.

Today, a Kern County Jury found Harris guilty of Second Degree Murder, Assault with a Semi-Automatic Firearm, Domestic Violence and Child Endangerment. The case was prosecuted by Deputy DA Brad Taconi.

On July 7, 2025, Harris returned to his Bakersfield residence and immediately started several arguments with the mother of his children. Harris continued to escalate the arguments while the victim’s father, Ever Florez, attempted to resolve the conflict. Harris isolated the victim in his bedroom and pushed her on the bed, proceeding to strangle her with his hands. After approximately one minute, Harris took his hands off the victim, grabbed a newly purchased semi-automatic firearm, and aimed it at the victim.

As the victim feared for her life, she heard footsteps coming down the hall. She got up and exited the room. Harris followed her out by kicking open his bedroom door. He rounded the corner and saw Ever Florez who had a riffle in his hands in attempt to rescue his daughter. Harris immediately shot him dead. Both of Harris’ children, and their mother, witnessed the murder. Both children were in the room while Harris was carrying around an unsecured, loaded firearm and were in a reasonable path of a stray bullet.

After murdering Ever Florez, Harris threatened the victim and her sister by telling them that they were next. Harris seized the victim’s cellphone and captured video with the cell phone of the murdered body of Ever Florez.

DA Zimmer commented; “Domestic violence is often viewed as solely intimate partner abuse, yet this incident demonstrates the danger it poses to a victim’s loved ones. Harris’ actions put the entire household at risk, ultimately leading to the tragic murder of Ever Florez, who bravely tried to protect his daughter. His life can never be restored, but justice is being served in his name and on behalf of all the victims in this case.” Sentencing is set for January 14, 2026 where Harris faces up to 66 years to life in prison.