Redondo Beach Man Stands Trial For Domestic Violence Murder

REDONDO BEACH, CA — A man stands trial today for allegedly killing the mother of their nine-month-old baby at a Redondo Beach home and threatening the victim’s grandfather, according to the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office.

Roy Peña Rodriguez Jr. was 22 years old when the crime was committed in August 2015. He faces one count each of murder and dissuading a witness by force or threat, and two counts of criminal threats, according to the District Attorney's Office.

Rodriguez allegedly shot Paige Chiarello, 21, in the head during a domestic dispute at her grandfather’s home, the prosecutor said. When the grandfather attempted to help Chiarello and her child who was in the same room, Rodriguez threatened him.

Chiarello's grandfather managed to call 911 and the defendant was arrested after a short standoff with police, according to the District Attorney's Office. The victim died at the hospital the next day.

If convicted as originally charged, Rodriguez faces a possible maximum sentence of more than 71 years to life in state prison. The prosecutor requested $2 million bail.

Image via Shutterstock