Murder charges have been filed against a 38-year-old man accused of killing a fellow Mexican national in a shootout five months ago outside a downtown bar.
A warrant was issued Wednesday for the arrest of Miguel Martinez Estrada, also known as Miguel Gutierrez-Martinez, for the Feb. 16 shooting of Joe Valdez, also known as Victor Ramirez Gonzales, outside The Club tavern in West Central City.Bail was set at $250,000. Estrada was charged with one count of murder, a first-degree felony.
The two men shot at each other in the bar's parking lot, 501 S. 200 West, after arguing over drugs and drug money, according to charges filed in 3rd Circuit Court.
Estrada pulled out a .45-caliber handgun and began shooting at Valdez, who then pulled a gun and shot back, charges state. After several attempts, Estrada shot at and hit Valdez in the chest.
Investigators said as many as 10 shots were exchanged in the shootout. The victim was pronounced dead on arrival at LDS Hospital.