The man accused of brutally beating architect Graham Downes appeared in court Tuesday.
Higinio Soriano Salgado, 31, pleaded not guilty to attempted murder. The judge set bail at $3 million.
“Our concern is the flight risk,” prosecutor Amy Maund said. “The investigation has shown that he has ties to Mexico and is currently building a residence in Mexico.”
Downes, 55, was pronounced dead on Thursday. A status hearing is scheduled for Friday, where the charge was changed to murder.
Police found Downes unconscious outside his Bankers Hill home Friday morning. Prosecutors say he suffered multiple skull fractures and severe facial injuries.
Prosecutors say Salgado was an employee at Downes’s firm.
The victim is known for designing the Hard Rock Hotel, Tower 23 and other San Diego hotels and restaurants.
