THREE SUSPECTS CHARGED IN MURDER OF OFFICER CHRIS WILSON

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By Miriam Raftery

 

July 29, 2011 (San Diego)—District Attorney Bonnie M. Dumanis announced this week that Alex Charfauros, 26, Melissa Ortiz, 21, and Patrick Luangrath, 19, will face 13 charges including murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to obstruct justice. The three were inside the apartment when Officer Wilson was shot on Oct. 27, 2010 while trying to arrest a suspect wanted for assault with a deadly weapon. Officer Wilson later succumbed to his wounds.

 

Two others, Holim Lee and Lucky Xalasene, were found dead inside the apartment. The San Diego Medical Examiner’s office determined that Lee killed himself after fatally shooting Officer Wilson and wounding a police dog. The dog has since recovered.

 

“The death of Officer Wilson is a reminder that SDPD officers put themselves in harm’s way every day to ensure the safety and security of the residents of San Diego,” said Brian R. Marvel, President of the San Diego Police Officers Association. “We want to thank the District Attorney, the lead Deputy District Attorney and DA Investigators on this case for their tireless efforts in making sure that those involved in Chris’ tragic death were brought forward to face the consequences of their actions. We look forward to seeing these cases progress so that those responsible for the murder of Officer Wilson are brought to justice.”

 

Wilson chose to remain on a beat in Southeast San Diego, an area riddled by gangs, drugs and violence, Captain Tony McElroy told the Union-Tribune in October. A former surface warfare officer with the U.S. Navy, Wilson became a trauma counselor and helped other officers who had undergone trauma. He had a reputation for helping the disadvantaged and for resolving tense situations peacefully.

 

The slain officer is survived by two teenage children, Kaylee and Conner.
 


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