DA: 2 teens to be tried as adults in deadly Novato attack

ByAmy Hollyfield KGO logo

Wednesday, June 1, 2016

Classes resume at Novato High after student fatally shot

It has been a rough week for the Novato high school community, today they go back to school for the first time since a fatal off-campus shooting.

NOVATO, Calif. (KGO) -- The Marin County District Attorney announced Tuesday that the two teens accused of fatally shooting and stabbing Novato High School student Edwin Ramirez, and wounding another, last Wednesday, will be tried as adults.

The district attorney announced that 17-year-old Juan Carlos Martinez Henriquez and 16-year-old Edwin Guevara will be tried as adults on murder and attempted murder charges. The two suspects are not eligible for death penalty because they are minors.

A 20-year-old man, Elmer Fernando Machado-Rivera, has also been accused of being an accessory after the fact.

It was a solemn day in Novato where high school students returned to class for the first time since one of their class mates was murdered. Another student was hurt in the same attack and two other students were arrested in connection with the crimes.

At Novato High School, grief counselors were on hand to help the small community of 1,400 students. Students are wanting to talk about the incident. The superintendent says even though they didn't have class on Friday some students came talk to counselors who were available.

Teachers showed up early Tuesday morning wearing Novato High School T-shirts to show their support to students as they returned to class for the first time since tragedy struck. Two students were shot and stabbed last week, two other students were arrested and accused of the crimes.

"It's going to be a tough day but a good day for the kids to come together first day back. Think it's going to be a normal day for them," said superintendent Jim Hogeboom.

The attack happened Wednesday near a waterfall in Novato's Country Club neighborhood. Guerra, 17, died, the other student survived. His name has not been released.

The student body president Romario Conrado set up a GoFundMe account to raise money for the victim's families. On the website the student president says, "I am always here for anyone, even if we've never even communicated. Do not hesitate on sending me a message if you need an ear, a shoulder, a friend, or even a hug."

Some parents also encouraged their kid to be there for others during this time.

"I told her to stay away from any problems and then try to be support of the students," said parent Martha Ochoa.