Oceanside Teen to be Tried for Murder

A 16-year-old boy accused in the stabbing death of an Oceanside man and the wounding of another during a fight in a Vista park must stand trial on murder and other charges, a judge ruled today.

Cristian Garcia is charged as an adult in connection with the Nov. 10 fight in Vista's Brengle Terrace Park that left 24-year-old Antonio Canseco dead and Martin Hernandez, 21, wounded.

In addition to murder, Garcia -- who was 15 at the time of the fight -- faces a charge of assault with a deadly weapon and allegations that he is gang member. He faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted, according to the prosecution.

Following a daylong preliminary hearing, Vista Superior Court Judge Timothy Casserly ruled that enough evidence was presented for Garcia to proceed to trial June 24.

—City News Service