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Suspect in Poway Synagogue Shooting Makes First Court Appearance

The 19-year-old man charged with opening fire in a Poway synagogue pleaded not guilty in his first hearing in a San Diego courtroom Tuesday.

John T. Earnest wore glasses and stood behind a glass panel, appearing to glance at public defender John O'Connell for guidance. The judge denied bail, calling Earnest an extreme threat to public safety.

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said at a news conference after the hearing that Lori Kaye was shot twice with a rifle at Chabad of Poway synagogue on Saturday. Stephan says Earnest then shot the congregation's rabbi, who lost a finger. The shooter then turned toward a room of children and other adults. Almog Peretz tried to protect his niece and other children and received shrapnel wounds. So did his 8-year-old niece.

Prosecutors say Earnest fired eight to 10 rounds before the gun, which was legally purchased, either jammed or he wasn't able to release the magazine to reload. He then ran off but was later arrested with a tactical vest, helmet and 50 unfired bullets.

Stephan said he could face life in prison without parole or the death penalty if he's convicted of murder with a special circumstance of a hate crime. She said a decision on whether to seek the death penalty will be made later. Earnest also faces three charges of attempted murder.

Photo Credit: 10News

Source: AP


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