Man Charged in Fatal Stabbing Over Backpack

An 18-year-old man was charged Monday with the murder of a 15-year-old Long Beach high school student who was killed walking home from school, Los Angeles prosecutors said.

Giovanny Montelongo faces one count each of murder, second-degree robbery and attempted second-degree robbery. The case includes a special circumstance allegation that the murder was committed during the commission of a robbery and an allegation that the crimes were committed in association with a criminal street gang.

Montelongo allegedly stabbed Cabrillo High School student Keyshawn Brooks to death on Thursday while he tried to rob the victim, prosecutors said. The defendant also is accused of attempting to rob a second victim, authorities said.

Prosecutors said the suspect is eligible for the death penalty.

"My son was not a gang member," said Keyshawn's father, Keeyon Layton, during a news conference announcing Montelongo's arrest. "This was a murder and he did not deserve to die."

The incident occurred across the street from Stephens Middle School as children were being let out, and numerous parents were in the area picking-up their kids. Detectives believe many parents witnessed some or all of the incident, and want them to come forward.

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