KITSAP COUNTY, Wash. – Three men were convicted of murder and arson in connection with the tragic deaths of a family of four nearly seven years ago. Daniel Kelly Jr., Johnny Watson, and Robert Watson faced charges of first-degree premeditated murder, first-degree murder, attempted murder, and arson. The verdict was delivered on Friday at the Kitsap County Courthouse after the judge read the jury’s decision.
The three individuals are believed to be associated with the Banditos Motorcycle Club and are suspected of killing John Careaga, his wife, and their two teenage stepsons. The bodies were discovered in a home in Seabeck following a report of violent activity in February 2017. Tragically, the victims were identified as Christale Careaga, Hunter Schaap, Johnathon Higgins, and John Careaga.
Family members of the victims gathered at the courthouse to hear the verdict. Many supporters overflowed the courtroom, forcing some to watch from an adjacent room. Despite the connection to the motorcycle club, the extent of the suspects’ involvement remains unclear.
All three defendants initially pleaded not guilty and have been detained since their arrest in June 2022. Following the verdict, Ashlynn Withem, the daughter of one victim, expressed relief at seeing justice served. John Higgins, the father of one of the deceased teenagers and former husband of Christale Careaga, echoed the sentiment, saying the verdict brings a sense of closure for their family.
The sentencing hearing is set for Tuesday, May 7, at 9 a.m., with discussions underway between attorneys and the judge regarding a possible change in the date. The outcome of this trial represents a crucial step towards justice for the impacted families, allowing them to begin the healing process after years of uncertainty and grief.