SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A former high school wrestling coach in Sacramento faces murder charges following the tragic killing of a 56-year-old bail bondsman in downtown Sacramento early Monday. The victim, identified as Kevin Brace and a dedicated worker at Greg Padilla Bail Bonds, was fatally assaulted on I Street. Authorities responded to a distress call in the 500 block of I Street at approximately 4:15 a.m., but despite efforts from emergency responders, Brace succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
According to the co-owner of Greg Padilla Bail Bonds, Topo Padilla, the assailant reportedly knocked on the office door seeking assistance with a phone. Brace approached to help and was subsequently dragged out of the office and attacked. Padilla expressed disbelief at the senseless act, noting that Brace was a harmless individual who contributed positively to the community. The suspect, identified as 38-year-old Jacob Mandell, was swiftly taken into custody by law enforcement, with investigations underway to determine the motive behind the tragic assault.
Public records revealed that Mandell served as the wrestling coach for El Camino Fundamental High School during the 2023-24 season, which concluded in March. Appearing in court for a brief hearing, Mandell was formally charged with murder and is scheduled for his next court appearance on June 12. Meanwhile, Brace’s family, including his grieving wife, prepares for his funeral as they seek closure and justice for his untimely death.
Individuals with any pertinent information regarding the case are urged to contact the dispatch center or Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers to aid investigators in piecing together the events leading to the tragic incident. The community remains stunned by the loss of Brace, a respected member of Sacramento, and awaits further developments in the ongoing investigation.