A man accused of fatally shooting another man outside a Logan Heights apartment complex earlier in the week pleaded not guilty in court on Friday.
The family of the victim, 46-year-old Robert “Chito” Marquez, came together to face 23-year-old Jaimie Roberts in court, who has been charged with Marquez’s murder. Judge Maureen F. Hallahan did not allow NBC San Diego to show Roberts’ face.
The judge ruled that Roberts would continue to be held without bail. He is expected back in court on July 20.
“He was a man. He was a father. He was our cousin. He was our family. He was a beautiful human being that didn’t deserve this. But most importantly, he was a great dad,” Cece Marquez, Robert’s cousin, told NBC San Diego.
The shooting broke out around 9 p.m. Tuesday night after an argument between a group of people outside a Logan Heights apartment complex, leaving Marquez dead, San Diego police said Wednesday.
The victim was involved in a relationship with one of those detained, but San Diego police didn’t provide any other details.
The deadly shooting happened on Webster Avenue, where Marquez was found with two gunshot wounds, Roberts was arrested, and two others were detained by police, SDPD Lt. Cesar Jimenez said.
Medics transported Marquez to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators learned all four people, who knew each other, were involved in some kind of altercation before the shooting. Police said Marquez was also involved in a relationship with one of the three other individuals. The Marquez family told NBC San Diego they are not certain how Marquez and Roberts knew each other.
Marquez left behind two young sons.
“He was always there for us. He loved his Padres. He loved his boys, loved his boys. He loved his reggae music. And that, yes, he’s the best barbecuer in the world,” Cece added.
The Marquez family said they’re staying strong and united for Robert’s sons.
“Their dad’s memory is going to stay alive forever. We’re all here in unity. All of us, all of our families here in unity. And we’re going to continue to do that for his voice,” Cece said.
“The defendant in this case is charged with one count of murder as well as using a gun. The defendant faces, in this case, 50 years to life. As you know, this was a very serious case. And the charges do reflect that,” said Deputy District Attorney Jayda Davis.
Further details regarding the fight and the connection between the parties has not been disclosed.
By Wednesday evening, a few photos and candles were placed outside the complex to memorialize Marquez.
San Diego police are investigating a deadly shooting in Logan Heights, where one person died. No one has been arrested.