A man pleaded guilty Tuesday to second-degree murder charges in connection with the death of a 14-year-old in 2022.

Diego Lopez, who was 16 at the time of the incident, faces up to 48 years in prison for the killing of 14-year-old Josiaz “Jojo” Aragon, according to a news release from the Denver District Attorney.

On Aug. 8, 2022, Lopez beat, shot and killed Aragon outside the Southwest Recreation Center at 9200 W. Saratoga Place in southwest Denver, the release said.

Lopez was in the process of buying a gun from Aragon when the incident broke out.

“With this plea, Diego Lopez is finally accepting responsibility for his horrific and senseless actions,” said Denver District Attorney John Walsh, in the release. “We will seek a heavy prison term when he’s sentenced.”

Lopez’s sentencing is set for July 18.