Chula Vista, California — An 18-year-old has been arrested following a tragic shooting that claimed the lives of two teenagers during a Halloween party over the weekend. David Garcia was apprehended near his residence in National City and is now facing murder charges.
The victims, identified as 15-year-old Kane Roldan and 17-year-old Elias Yanez, were attending a gathering on East Prospect Street when an argument spiraled into violence. Chula Vista police reported receiving an emergency call shortly after 11 p.m., prompting an immediate response to the scene.
Georgina Martinez, Roldan’s foster mother and legal guardian for approximately two years, recounted the heart-wrenching moment she learned of the shooting. She described receiving a frantic call from her eldest son, who revealed they were unable to locate Kane amidst the chaos. “We can’t find Kane,” Martinez recalled her son telling her.
Upon arriving at the party site, Martinez encountered a scene filled with police officers and yellow tape marking the area. She was later directed to UC San Diego Medical Center, where she faced the devastating confirmation of her worst fears. “They did everything they could. But he was gone,” she said, expressing her profound grief.
The police indicated that tensions escalated at the party, resulting in gunfire that left two families shattered. The investigation remains active, with authorities continuing to seek additional information about the incident.
Martinez lovingly spoke of Kane, highlighting his vibrant personality and passion for basketball. She reflected on the journey he had taken to overcome a difficult upbringing, sharing that days prior to his death, Kane had sent her a touching message expressing his gratitude for the family she provided. “I love you. I’m never gonna be able to repay you for everything you’ve done for me,” she paraphrased from his heartfelt note.
In the wake of this tragedy, Martinez has made an emotional plea to the community for assistance in seeking justice. “These two kids had so much going for them, and it was robbed,” she stated before Garcia’s arrest was announced. The foster family has also established a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs for the victims.
As authorities continue their investigation into the shooting and its aftermath, the loss felt by the families and the community underscores the pressing need for peace and security in local neighborhoods.