CHULA VISTA, CA – A Halloween celebration in a suburban neighborhood took a deadly turn when an 18-year-old man was accused of fatally shooting two teenagers after a dispute quickly escalated at a crowded house party.
Authorities said David Garcia, 18, entered a plea of not guilty on Wednesday to multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree murder. The charges stem from the deaths of Kane Roldan, 15, and Elias Yanez, 17, who were gunned down late Halloween night.
Investigators allege that more than 100 people attended the party when Garcia began displaying a handgun tucked in his waistband. At one point during the festivities, prosecutors allege Garcia fired his weapon into the air during a separate confrontation as a means of intimidation.
The evening’s tension reportedly worsened when Garcia became involved in a heated argument with another attendee, who was a friend of the two victims. Roldan and Yanez attempted to intervene in the dispute, according to officials.
Authorities say this intervention ended in tragedy, with Garcia allegedly discharging his firearm and striking both teenagers. Emergency services arrived at the scene shortly after 11 p.m., where they found Roldan and Yanez suffering from gunshot wounds. Police officers began lifesaving efforts before the teens were transported to a local hospital, where both were later declared dead.
Following an investigation, officers took Garcia into custody on Monday. He is currently being held without bail at the George Bailey Detention Facility.
In addition to the murder charges, Garcia faces accusations of negligent firearm discharge and carrying a loaded firearm in public, reflecting the gravity of the alleged acts that unfolded amid the holiday celebration.
The incident has shaken the local community, prompting calls for improved safety measures and conversations about gun violence among youth.
Garcia is due to return to court on December 12 as the legal proceedings continue. The case remains under active investigation by local law enforcement, who are urging anyone with additional information about the party or the shooting to come forward.
No additional injuries were reported, and authorities have not released further details about the weapon involved or how Garcia acquired it. The neighborhood remains on edge as families and friends mourn the loss of the two victims.