SAN ANTONIO — A man accused of beating his neighbor to death and setting fire to his home in February has been indicted on charges of murder and arson of a habitation, first-degree felonies punishable by five to 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
On the evening of Feb. 26, police say Baltazar Castañeda beat his 58-year-old neighbor, Richard Amesquita, to death before dragging his body back into his west-side home and setting it on fire.
According to a statement from the Bexar County Criminal District Attorney's Office, each indictment also alleges that Castañeda is a habitual offender due to two prior felony convictions. If true, his prison time could be increased by decades.
The case will be assigned to the District Attorney’s Felony Criminal Trial division for prosecution.
“Richard Amesquita deserved to be safe in his own home – and the Grand Jury has now tasked us with ensuring that justice prevails in this case,” Bexar County DA Joe Gonzales is quoted as saying in a release.
Learn more about KENS 5:
Since going on the air in 1950, KENS 5 has strived to be the best, most trusted news and entertainment source for generations of San Antonians.
KENS 5 has brought numerous firsts to South Texas television, including being the first local station with a helicopter, the first with its own Doppler radar and the first to air a local morning news program.
Over the years, KENS 5 has worked to transform local news. Our cameras have been the lens bringing history into local viewers' homes. We're proud of our legacy as we serve San Antonians today.
Today, KENS 5 continues to set the standard in local broadcasting and is recognized by its peers for excellence and innovation. The KENS 5 News team focuses on stories that really matter to our community.
You can find KENS 5 in more places than ever before, including KENS5.com, the KENS 5 app, the KENS 5 YouTube channel, KENS 5's Roku and Fire TV apps, and across social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more!
Want to get in touch with someone at KENS 5? You can send a message using our Contacts page or email one of our team members.