Men Charged in 1993 Killing of San Diego Sailors

San Diego-based sailors killed in Otay Mesa

The jury reached a verdict in the trial of the two men accused of robbing and fatally shooting two San Diego-based sailors 18 years ago.

Edward Jesus Elias and Leopoldo Castro Chavez are charged with two counts of murder in the deaths of two victims that were stationed aboard the aircraft carrier USS Constellation.

Recent DNA evidence linked them to the murders of Eugene Clifford Ellis and Keith Combs.

“After nearly two decades, a measure of justice has been served to the family and friends of the two victims in this case,” DA Bonnie Dumanis said.

According to the prosecution, both victims were shot three times and their bodies were found in the early morning in the area east of Palm Avenue.

A press release from the District Attorney said Ellis and Combs spent the night at a bonfire with friends. When their bodies were found the next morning, Ellis' truck was missing.

Chavez was discovered four days later driving the truck in Tijuana.

If convicted of murder, they face life in prison without parole.

They will be sentenced May 11.

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