A second man was charged Monday in connection with the shooting death of Army veteran Francisco Garcia in Sylmar, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday.
Jerry Raymond Carmona, a 26-year-old alleged gang member, faced one count each of murder and attempted murder in Garcia’s death, according to the D.A.’s office.
Garcia was shot and killed outside his girlfriend’s home in the early morning hours of Nov. 9 following a party at the location.
A second defendant in the case, Vincent Anthony Estrada, 18, pleaded not guilty Monday to one count each of murder, attempted murder and discharge of firearm with gross negligence, prosecutors said.
The complaint includes allegations that the offenses were committed for the benefit of a criminal street gang, according to the D.A.’s office. Police were investigating whether the veteran was part of a “tagger crew” and might have been shot as a result of a dispute among differing groups.
Both defendants were due back in court on Dec. 18 to set a date for a preliminary hearing.
Bail for Estrada and Carmona was set at more than $2 million.
If convicted as charged, both faced a maximum sentence of life in prison, prosecutors said.
