BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — A man faces over 100 years in prison after being convicted of shooting and killing a man at point-blank range in May 2022.

The Kern County District Attorney’s Office said on October 17, 2025, a Kern County jury found Michael Castillo guilty of first-degree murder, felon in possession of a firearm, and resisting arrest. Firearm enhancements were also found true.

The DA’s office said on October 27, 2025, the court found it true that Castillo had suffered two previous strikes. In addition, the court found three factors in aggravation true: that the defendant engaged in behavior that presents a danger to society, that the defendant has suffered numerous previous convictions, and that the defendant has previously served time in prison.

According to the DA’s office, in the late evening hours on May 15, 2022, Castillo and Francisco Rodriguez left an illegal internet casino on North Chester Avenue in Bakersfield. Surveillance footage showed Castillo walking with Rodriguez down the street to the Tacos La Villa.

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Once the two were behind the restaurant, Castillo pulled a .40 caliber handgun out and shot Rodriguez at point-blank range, according to the DA’s office. Castillo left the scene and his home.

While on the run, Castillo tried to enlist his neighbors and friends to engage in countersurveillance of undercover officers, according to the DA’s office.

The attempts were unsuccessful, and deputies were able to find Castillo.

On May 25, 2022, deputies found Castillo in the 2300 block of North Inyo Street. After obtaining a warrant for his arrest and calling for him to exit the residence, Castillo left and led deputies on a chase. A canine deputy assisted the Sheriff’s Office in apprehending Castillo.

A search of the home resulted in an AR-15 that Castillo had possessed.

District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer commented by saying, “Despite Castillo’s efforts, he could not evade law enforcement or justice. The gravity of his crime ensures consequences he cannot avoid.”

Castillo’s sentencing is scheduled for January 15, 2026, where he is facing up to 106 years to life in prison.