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Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Lehigh County District Judge Upholds Charges in Allentown Double Homicide Case
In a tragic incident that shook the community, a 1-year-old and his grandmother were found dead in Allentown on Dec. 29. A suspect, Gabriel Cartagena, faced nine counts in connection with the shooting that took place in Allentown’s 100 block of Chestnut Street. The district judge upheld all charges against Cartagena during Friday’s preliminary hearing.
Gabriel Cartagena, 43, hailing from the 800 block of West Liberty Street in Allentown, pleaded not guilty to the charges. His defense attorney, Kathryn Smith, represented him during the hearing before District Judge Karen Devine at the Lehigh County Courthouse.
Testimony Paints a Grim Picture
During the hearing, County District Attorney Gavin Holihan presented testimony from Leandro Ortiz, the husband of one of the victims, Ada Ortiz. According to Ortiz, the shooting took place when an unknown man knocked on their door and opened fire, resulting in the deaths of Ada Ortiz and the 1-year-old boy, Sebastian Serrano Jr.
Holihan stated that the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but the evidence points to Cartagena as the perpetrator. Video footage from the family’s surveillance system captured the chilling moments of the incident, with multiple gunshots ringing out in the family home.
Police Uncover Key Evidence
Police managed to obtain surveillance footage from nearby locations, tracing Cartagena’s movements before and after the shooting. The video footage shows Cartagena walking through the neighbourhood, wearing distinctive clothing that linked him to the crime scene.
Furthermore, police found a tan baseball cap similar to the one worn by the suspect in the video inside a residence linked to Cartagena. The discovery of the cap, along with other personal items belonging to Cartagena, strengthened the case against him.
Witnesses Testify Against Cartagena
Leandro Ortiz, the grieving husband and witness to the tragedy, positively identified Cartagena as the perpetrator in court. Ortiz recounted the harrowing moments of the shooting and expressed his certainty that Cartagena was responsible for the deaths of his wife and grandson.
Another key witness, Alexy Lopez, Sebastian’s mother, also testified against Cartagena, providing crucial insights into the events leading up to the tragic incident.
Legal Proceedings and Future Steps
As the case progresses, Cartagena remains in custody without bail, facing charges of homicide and prohibited possession of a firearm. The next phase involves a formal arraignment in the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas, setting the stage for a potential trial or plea deal.
The community awaits justice for the victims as the legal process unfolds, shedding light on the tragic events that transpired on that fateful night in Allentown.
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