Alleged shooter in baby murder is arraigned

VAN NUYS - The alleged shooter in the 2009 gang-related murder on an infant boy and the attempted murder of six others was arraigned Tuesday.Ricardo Hernandez is charged with one count of murder and six counts of attempted willful, deliberate and premeditated murder. Hernandez, whose moniker is "Playto," additionally faces one count of attempted carjacking. Prosecutors allege that Hernandez, 24, personally and intentionally discharged a firearm, a shotgun, which caused great bodily injury or death to seven victims. According to the criminal complaint, the shootings were done for the benefit of a criminal street gang. Hernandez fled the county after the shooting, prosecutors said. He was captured by Mexican authorities in the state of Jalisco and deported late last week. Co-defendant Alfonzo Landa, of Panorama City, is now pending trial. He has been in custody since October 2009 and is charged with murder, attempted carjacking and conspiracy to commit a crime. Four-month-old Andrew Garcia died from a single gunshot wound to the head on Sept. 27, 2009. Two others were injured in the shooting which occurred outside a Van Nuys home. Bail for Hernandez was recommended at $8 million. Hernandez and Landa face multiple life prison terms if convicted.

********** Published: July 8, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 12