San Diego, CA — A Los Angeles County man has been identified as the victim of a fatal shooting incident at a Mission Valley hotel earlier this week. The shooting also injured another man, authorities said Thursday. Damian Martinez, 19, from El Monte, was discovered deceased in a hotel hallway by police responding to gunfire reports at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Monday.
The incident occurred at the Handlery Hotel located in the 900 block of Hotel Circle North. Upon arrival, besides finding Martinez, officers also located a 23-year-old man near the hotel lobby with gunshot wounds that were assessed as non-life-threatening. The second victim’s identity has not been disclosed.
Shortly after discovering the victims, police officers noticed a dark-colored truck in the hotel’s parking lot matching a description obtained at the scene. The vehicle’s occupant, identified as 29-year-old Kevin Casey Larin from Northridge, was apprehended without resistance. Larin was subsequently booked into San Diego Central Jail facing charges of murder and attempted murder.
Lt. Lou Maggi of the San Diego Police Department revealed that the three men were colleagues and had traveled to San Diego for work-related purposes. However, the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, with police continuing their investigation into the circumstances leading up to the tragic event.
This incident has shocked the community in Mission Valley, a neighborhood known for its bustling hotel corridors and commercial vibrancy. The involvement of coworkers in the incident adds a layer of complexity to the case, raising questions about workplace relationships and conflicts.
Local residents and businesses expressed concern over safety, especially considering the occurrence of such a violent act in an area frequented by tourists and families. Hotel management and local authorities have assured the public that immediate measures are being implemented to enhance security and prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the community grapples with the repercussions of this crime, officials urge anyone with additional information to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, the hotel where the shooting took place is cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies to aid in the swift resolution of this case.
This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the unforeseen ramifications of personal disputes, especially when they escalate in settings far from home. As the investigation continues, all involved parties hope for a clear understanding and justice for the victims and their families.