TWENTYNINE PALMS, California – In a tragic incident on May 20th, 18-year-old Rudy Garcia stands accused of fatally shooting 35-year-old Robert McDonald in what authorities believe was an attempted carjacking. According to the district attorney’s felony complaint, Garcia is facing multiple charges, including murder, attempted carjacking, attempted robbery, as well as several counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm. He is currently being held without bail at the West Valley Detention Center, with his first hearing scheduled for May 24th.
The unfortunate event unfolded near Knott Sky Park, where Garcia was arrested shortly after the shooting. Garcia’s alleged actions also led to additional charges, such as discharging a firearm and causing great bodily injury, which could extend his sentence if found guilty. The victim, Gunnery Sgt. Robert McDonald, was shot in the head while in his car with his dog at the dog park within Knott Sky Park.
Prior to the fatal shooting, Garcia was reportedly part of a group causing a disturbance in the area, leading to a confrontation with a resident during which shots were fired, although no one was injured. Following the altercation, Garcia fled towards Knott Sky Park, while the rest of the group dispersed in different directions. It was at this park that Garcia allegedly targeted McDonald, shooting him without any provocation.
Tragically, despite McDonald’s attempt to drive away, he collided with a parked vehicle occupied by a family. Deputies arrived at the scene and attempted to save him, but McDonald succumbed to his injuries. Garcia was apprehended nearby, with authorities recovering a handgun believed to be the weapon used in the shooting. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the community left in shock over the senseless act of violence.