BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — A Bakersfield man, Rodrigo Lara, was convicted on Thursday, August 28, for the murder of 33-year-old Javier Sanchez, according to the Kern County District Attorney’s Office. Lara was found guilty of first-degree murder, being a prohibited person in possession of ammunition, conspiracy to commit murder, and gang conspiracy. The jury determined that the murder and conspiracy were committed for the benefit of a criminal street gang.
The incident occurred on August 25, 2024, when Lara traveled on foot to a gathering on the 400 block of Lloyd Street in east Bakersfield. He concealed himself in a dark portion of the driveway where the victim, Sanchez, was also present, said prosecutors. The DA said around 3:00 a.m., as Sanchez walked to his vehicle parked in the driveway, gunfire erupted from the darkened area, striking him. Sanchez succumbed to his injuries, and Lara fled the scene.
The Bakersfield Police Department discovered Lara’s belongings along his escape route, including an empty 9mm magazine, two live rounds of 9mm ammunition, and a shirt covered with Sanchez’s blood, all found in storm sewers. Video surveillance also captured Lara breaking his cell phone over his knee…