Multiple criminal charges including murder have been filed in Santa Barbara County Superior Court against a father and son following a double shooting that led to one teenager’s death last week in Santa Maria.
Casey Jose Pacheco Hernandez, 42, of Santa Maria, and Casey Junior Hernandez, 19, were arrested hours after the Nov. 1 shooting. At the time of his arrest, the son had been staying in Oceano, but reportedly lived in Santa Maria.
At approximately 12:50 a.m. Nov.1, Santa Maria police officers and firefighters were dispatched to the shooting on the 400 block of East Betteravia Road.
American Medical Response ambulance personnel also were sent to the scene where police said an altercation between two groups escalated into a shooting that sent two males to the hospital.
The shooting left an 18-year-old as in critical condition, while a 17-year-old sustained injuries that were not life-threatening, police said.
Robert Junior Estrada, 18, of Nipomo, died due to his injuries, according to the criminal complaint.
In addition to one count of murder, the pair of defendants have been charged with four counts of attempted murder involving four victims.
Pacheco Hernandez is also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The criminal complaint also includes a special allegation, or sentencing enhancement, for personally discharging a firearm.
Both men entered not guilty pleas Wednesday morning during an arraignment hearing in Santa Maria and denied the special allegations.
The case returns to court Nov. 14 when the judge and attorneys may set schedule the preliminary hearing.
They remain in the custody of the Santa Barbara County Jail without bail.
A GoFundMe page, In Memory of Robert Junior Estrada: Support His Family, to help the victim’s family had raised more than $5,000.
“At just 18 years of age, Junior’s life was tragically cut short, he was a victim of a senseless crime…,” GoFundMe page said.
“Junior was not just a son and brother; he was a cherished nephew, grandson, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around him. His presence was contagious with his loving and respectful nature.”
The site also noted the teenager’s “radiant smile”
“Robert is a unique being you only come across once, the beautiful memories he left behind will forever be etched in our hearts.”
In addition to his parents Robert and Yazmine, survivors include sisters Eloisa and Karina.