Mechanic Murder Suspect Has Troubling Past

Court documents reveal a troubling past for the man accused of killing a Point Loma mechanic.

Nicolas Rosales, 47, has been named as a suspect in the murder of Jalal "Joe" Abou, 63.

Abou was shot several times outside his business, Joe's Auto Repair, at 1930 Rosecrans St. last Tuesday. He died at the scene.

A 1993 report by a counselor with the San Diego County Family Court Services recommended Rosales enroll in an anger management program, according to court documents.

Rosales also pleaded guilty in 1993 to a felony charge of violation of custody decree. He was sentenced to 150 days. In that case, Rosales violated a child custody agreement by taking his children to Florida.
 
The Family Court Services report, which was part of documentation on the child custody dispute, also recounted two "graphic" incidents involving Rosales.

"The 6-year-old child described incidences of what amounts to drive-by shootings and his father and his friends having weapons in the open," the report stated. "The eldest child was quite graphic in describing incidences of observing the father drunk, and seeing his father strike the stepmother."

The report also says Rosales admitted to past use of marijuana, but denied being drunk and denied that there has ever been any domestic violence to his former or current spouse.

Meanwhile, a former employer of Rosales says he "can't believe" the news that Rosales is a murder suspect.

Rosales worked at a Santee auto shop in 2005 as a fill-in mechanic for two months, according to the shop owner, who also says Rosales showed up at the shop looking for work just a few months ago.

Rosales was known as "Nic" at the shop. "He was a very good employee, a family man, said the former employer. "He always talked about his kids."

Detectives have obtained an arrest warrant for Rosales and ask the public's help in locating him and/or one of his vehicles.

Police said Rosales owns a dark green 1997 Honda Accord with gray primer spots, CA license 5YRJ935 and a white 2000 Ford Explorer, CA license 6NZN776.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers (888) 580-8477.


Related articles: 

Suspect ID'd in Mechanic's Death

Slain Mechanic Laid to Rest

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Mechanic Killed at Point Loma Auto Shop

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