Police are investigating the murder of a man who was killed, according to investigators, in some sort of "alcohol-fueled" fight at an Escondido home.
A homicide investigation was launched Friday after police discovered an unresponsive man with critical injuries inside a residence in the 300-block of West 7th Avenue.
Police say the victim – a man in his 40s – had sustained significant blunt force trauma to his head. Officials pronounced him dead at the scene.
Shortly thereafter, the homicide investigation led police to arrest suspect Martin Vazquez, 43, in connection with the killing.
Vasquez was booked into the Vista Detention Facility on one count of first-degree murder. He’s being held without bail and is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday.
Escondido Sgt. Shannon Murphy said the victim and Vasquez knew each other, though she couldn't confirm if the men were friends or roommates.
Sgt. Murphy called the homicide an "alcohol-fueled event," and said there are no outstanding suspects in the case. Further details surrounding the fatal fight or motive were not released.
Officials also wouldn’t say if any weapons were used in the murder.
The victim’s name has not yet been released, pending notification of family members.
NBC 7 spoke with neighbors in the area who were outside all afternoon and into the evening wondering what led to this. Residents said they were shocked and concerned for their families.
“I worry. You see a lot of children. [This seems] really, really dangerous,” said Rosa Guitierrez.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information connected to this case should contact Escondido Police Det. Miguel Ramirez at (760) 839-4925.
