Trial Scheduled for Las Vegas Murder Case After 17 Years

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A courtroom where the trial for the Las Vegas murder case will take place.

News Summary

Jonathan Romero, charged with the murder of David Manriquez in Las Vegas, is set for trial on March 2, 2026. Manriquez’s family seeks justice as the case unfolds, recalling the tragic events of 2008 that led to the fatal confrontation. The upcoming trial aims to provide closure after years of evasion and legal battles.

Las Vegas – A jury trial is set for March 2, 2026, for Jonathan Romero, 34, who is charged with the murder of 18-year-old David Manriquez that occurred 17 years ago in Las Vegas. During a court appearance on June 11, 2025, Romero pleaded not guilty to charges including murder with a deadly weapon, attempted murder with a deadly weapon, and burglary while in possession of a deadly weapon.

The alleged murder took place on July 18, 2008, in the vicinity of Lamb Boulevard and Washington Avenue. Family members of Manriquez attended the court proceedings, voicing their desire for justice and the need for accountability from Romero. The trial’s schedule includes a status check on September 17, 2025, to address any preliminary matters before the jury trial begins.

Romero’s indictment stems from events leading to the confrontation with Manriquez. Testimonies indicate that Romero allegedly broke into the home of Manriquez’s ex-girlfriend and shot him multiple times, including a fatal shot to the back of his head, following a struggle. After the incident, law enforcement issued a warrant for Romero’s arrest. However, he fled to Mexico, evading capture for several years.

In July 2024, the FBI was informed of Romero’s arrest in Mexico by a Criminal Apprehension Team. Subsequently, he was extradited back to Nevada, where he was booked into the Clark County Detention Center last month. The ex-girlfriend’s testimony played a crucial role in bringing the alleged details of the case to light, supporting the charges against Romero and providing insight into the violent circumstances surrounding the murder.

The Manriquez family has expressed a deep desire for justice throughout the lengthy legal process. David Manriquez is remembered fondly by his family, characterized as someone who had a bright spirit and loving nature. At the time of his death, he had an infant son who is now 17 years old and was present at Romero’s recent hearing with other family members.

Ruby Manriquez, the victim’s sister, openly reflected on her feelings following Romero’s arrest, underscoring a complex mix of surprise and hope for justice to prevail as the case moves forward. She wore a T-shirt featuring her brother’s photo during the court appearance, emphasizing the impact of his loss on the family and showcasing the close relationships that defined David Manriquez’s life.

As the legal proceedings advance, the focus remains on ensuring that the family receives the closure they seek after nearly two decades. The trial is anticipated to bring new developments in a case that has lingered in the shadows of Las Vegas’s legal history, as members of the community and family members of both the accused and the victim await a resolution. With the next scheduled court date approaching in September 2025, the Manriquez family continues to hold out for a measure of justice for their beloved son and brother.