OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – A Kissimmee man accused of firing celebratory gunshots on New Year’s Day, resulting in the death of a woman, will remain in custody after a judge denied his request for bond during a hearing on Thursday.
Carlos Tejada, 44, faces a charge of manslaughter by culpable negligence in connection with the death of 56-year-old Carmen Ochoa. The tragic incident occurred just minutes into the new year when Ochoa was struck by a stray bullet while standing in the screened pool area of her home, across a retention pond from Tejada’s backyard.
Investigators said Tejada was firing multiple guns in celebration of the holiday when a stray bullet traveled over 100 yards, hitting Ochoa, who was enjoying fireworks with her daughters.
In court, detectives testified that 77 shell casings were found in Tejada’s backyard. Prosecutors also presented video evidence taken from Ochoa’s phone, which captured the moments leading up to her death.
The video showed fireworks exploding in the night sky, interspersed with the sound of gunshots, before Ochoa was fatally struck.
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Tejada’s defense team argued there was no direct evidence tying him to the guns, noting the absence of fingerprints, DNA or gunpowder residue. They requested bond, proposing that Tejada surrender his passport and agree to electronic monitoring.
However, prosecutors emphasized the severity of the charges and the risk posed by Tejada’s alleged actions.
After hearing arguments from both sides, the judge denied the motion for bond, ruling that Tejada would remain in custody pending trial. The court also rejected a defense motion challenging the constitutionality of his detention.
The families of both the victim and the defendant were present in court, visibly emotional as the hearing unfolded.
Ochoa’s death has left a lasting impact on the community, serving as a tragic reminder of the dangers of celebratory gunfire.
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