San Diego, January 7, 2026
San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced plans to appeal a judge’s decision that granted resentencing to Charles Andrew ‘Andy’ Williams, the perpetrator of the 2001 Santana High School shooting. This ruling could lead to Williams’ release after 23 years in prison. District Attorney Stephan highlighted concerns regarding public safety and the severity of Williams’ actions, affirming the intent to challenge the decision in court.
San Diego, California
District Attorney to Appeal Resentencing of 2001 Santana High School Shooter
San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced plans to appeal a judge’s decision granting resentencing to Charles Andrew “Andy” Williams, the perpetrator of the 2001 Santana High School shooting. The judge’s ruling could lead to Williams’ release after 23 years in prison.
On January 6, 2026, a Superior Court Judge ruled that Williams, who was 15 at the time of the shooting, is eligible for resentencing. This decision transfers his case to juvenile court, potentially resulting in his immediate release without parole supervision or evaluation. Williams, now 39, has been incarcerated at the California Institution for Men in Chino since the incident. He became eligible for parole in 2024 but was previously denied due to being considered a public safety risk.
District Attorney Stephan emphasized the severity of Williams’ actions, stating that his “cruel actions in this case continue to warrant the 50-years-to-life sentence that was imposed.” She further expressed concerns about the implications of the ruling, questioning the message it sends to deter young individuals from committing similar acts of violence. The District Attorney’s office intends to file an appeal to the Fourth District Court of Appeal to challenge the resentencing decision.
The 2001 Santana High School shooting occurred on March 5, when Williams entered a boys’ bathroom with a .22-caliber revolver taken from his father’s locked gun cabinet. He fatally shot two students, 14-year-old Bryan Zuckor and 17-year-old Randy Gordon, and wounded 13 others. Williams was apprehended by police without resistance and later pleaded guilty to all charges, receiving a sentence of 50 years to life in prison. The case has been a focal point in discussions about juvenile sentencing and the potential for rehabilitation.
The legal proceedings surrounding Williams’ case have evolved over the years. In 2011, California enacted a law allowing for the review of life-without-parole sentences for juveniles. This law was expanded in 2022 to include sentences deemed the functional equivalent of life without parole. Under these provisions, Williams’ case was eligible for resentencing, leading to the recent court decision. The District Attorney’s office has notified victims and their families about the resentencing request, adhering to its responsibilities under Marsy’s Law, which ensures victims’ rights are considered in legal proceedings.
The community remains divided on the issue. Some advocate for the possibility of rehabilitation and reintegration of juvenile offenders, while others emphasize the need for justice and the protection of public safety. The outcome of the appeal will have significant implications for juvenile sentencing laws and the broader discourse on criminal justice reform in California.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the 2001 Santana High School shooting?
On March 5, 2001, Charles Andrew “Andy” Williams, then 15, opened fire at Santana High School in San Diego, California, killing two students and injuring 13 others. He was sentenced to 50 years to life in prison.
What is the recent court decision regarding Williams?
A Superior Court Judge granted Williams’ request for resentencing, potentially leading to his release after 23 years in prison. The case has been transferred to juvenile court for further proceedings.
Why is the District Attorney appealing the resentencing decision?
District Attorney Summer Stephan plans to appeal the decision, emphasizing the severity of Williams’ actions and expressing concerns about the implications for public safety and justice for the victims.
What are the legal grounds for resentencing in this case?
California laws enacted in 2011 and expanded in 2022 allow for the review of life-without-parole sentences for juveniles, including those deemed the functional equivalent. Williams’ case was eligible for resentencing under these provisions.
What are the potential implications of this case for juvenile sentencing laws?
The outcome of the appeal could influence future decisions regarding juvenile sentencing, rehabilitation, and the balance between justice for victims and the potential for offender rehabilitation.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | March 5, 2001 |
| Perpetrator | Charles Andrew “Andy” Williams |
| Age at Time of Incident | 15 |
| Victims | 2 students killed, 13 others injured |
| Sentence | 50 years to life in prison |
| Recent Court Decision | Resentencing granted, case transferred to juvenile court |
| District Attorney’s Response | Plans to appeal the resentencing decision |
| Legal Basis for Resentencing | California laws allowing review of juvenile life-without-parole sentences |
| Potential Implications | Impact on juvenile sentencing laws and rehabilitation considerations |
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