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.
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 9:50PMFamily 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.
"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.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: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. The suspect is expected to return to court next Tuesday once he has legal representation for his arraignment.
Former Antioch mayoral candidate charged in wife's murder, 10 years after it was ruled a suicideFormer Antioch mayoral candidate charged in wife's murder, 10 years after it was ruled a suicide 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 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. "
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