2018 East Palo Alto Halloween shooting suspect appears in court after 8 years being on the run
EAST PALO ALTO, Calif. (KGO) -- Family members of two men killed in a 2018 Halloween party shooting said they experienced a wave of emotion Tuesday as the man accused in the case appeared in court nearly a decade after investigators say he fled to Mexico.
Nancy Alvarado, the sister of one of the victims, broke down as she described the moment.
"Eight years... eight years and waiting," she said.
The 25-year-old alleged gunman faces multiple charges, including the murders of 22-year-old Eduardo Sandoval and 23-year-old Mario Vidales Mendez. Police said the suspect shot four people when a fight broke out at the party. Sandoval and Vidales Mendez did not survive.
"When they present him, it's like, ok, my heart dropped," said Veronica Sandoval, Eduardo's mother.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Fugitive arrested in 2018 East Palo Alto Halloween party shooting that killed 2 men
Eduardo's sister attended the hearing to support her brother, saying he had his whole life ahead of him. Family members said they celebrated when they learned the suspect would face six charges.
"It's a celebration and a victory for our family and the community of East Palo Alto," Alvarado said.
They acknowledged the charges will not bring their loved one back but said the case moving forward brings them closer to closure.
"We are grateful for the support you're giving us and we are hopeful," Alvarado said.
The suspect is expected to return to court next Tuesday once he has legal representation for his arraignment.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Marshals Service issued a statement regarding the arrest, with the suspect's name redacted:
"After eight years of following every credible lead, it was a profound moment to have (the suspect) in custody and bring this case to its conclusion. This represents, not only the accumulation of years we have worked this case, but also providing long-awaited closure to the victims' families, who have shown extraordinary patience and strength throughout this process. We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the many federal, state, and local agencies that collaborated in this investigation.
"The United States Marshals Service is dedicated to protecting the community and ensuring families have justice. Our mission allows us to locate and apprehend fugitives who are running and ensure they see their day in court."
