Former TV Host Faces Racially‑Motivated Highway Shooting Charges
A 46‑year‑old former Univision and Telemundo anchor has been taken into custody after police linked him to two fatal shootings on a remote mountain road. The suspect was arrested at the international airport on March 10 while preparing for a vacation.
The Incidents
| Date | Location | Victim | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct. 6 | South Grade Road, Palomar Mountain | Joseph (driver) | Shot through the window; arm grazed but survived |
| Feb. 23 | Same area, parked vehicle | Unnamed driver | One gunshot through the side window; narrowly missed |
Investigators say forensic evidence ties the suspect to both attacks. A 9‑mm handgun found at his Chula Vista home is believed to be the weapon used in one of the shootings.
Motive and Charges
Both victims were Hispanic. Authorities report that the shooter questioned their ethnicity before firing, prompting prosecutors to pursue hate‑crime enhancements. No additional charges have been announced beyond those already filed.
Personal Background
The accused is a husband and father of five. He was released on bail and is scheduled to appear in court on March 17; his legal representation has not yet been located.
Reactions
The suspect’s wife denied the accusations, claiming that the wrong person was targeted.
