Jury Listens to Gunshot Audio in Pacific Beach Homicide Trial

Courtroom scene from the Pacific Beach homicide trial

San Diego, California, January 21, 2026

In a trial concerning the homicide of Ryan Abbott in Pacific Beach, jurors heard audio recordings of the gunshot that led to his death. The primary suspect, Michael Lawrence Callahan, is accused of returning to the scene with a firearm after an argument and shooting Abbott. Law enforcement has been involved in ongoing investigations as this case raises concerns about safety in the community.

San Diego, California – Jury Hears Audio of Gunshot in Pacific Beach Homicide Case

San Diego, California – In a recent trial, a jury listened to audio recordings capturing the gunshot that resulted in the death of a Pacific Beach man. The recordings were presented as key evidence in the case against Michael Lawrence Callahan, who is accused of fatally shooting Ryan Abbott at the Campland on the Bay RV Resort on May 16, 2023.

Details of the Incident

On the evening of May 16, 2023, at approximately 10:08 p.m., San Diego Police responded to reports of a shooting at the Campland on the Bay RV Resort, located in the 2200 block of Pacific Beach Drive. Upon arrival, officers found Abbott suffering from a gunshot wound near the pool area. Despite life-saving efforts by officers and paramedics, Abbott was pronounced dead at the hospital at 10:39 p.m.

Investigation and Arrest

Investigators determined that Callahan had been involved in an argument with Abbott earlier in the evening. After leaving the scene, Callahan returned with a firearm and shot Abbott in the chest. He fled the area but was later apprehended. The firearm believed to have been used in the shooting was recovered and seized by police. Callahan has pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and remains in custody without bail.

Legal Proceedings

The trial has included the presentation of audio recordings capturing the gunshot that led to Abbott’s death. These recordings have been central to the prosecution’s case, providing critical evidence of the fatal incident. The trial is ongoing, with further proceedings scheduled in the coming weeks.

Background Context

Pacific Beach, a neighborhood in San Diego, has experienced several violent incidents in recent years. The tragic shooting at the Campland on the Bay RV Resort in May 2023 has further highlighted ongoing concerns about safety in the area. The community continues to seek measures to address and prevent such incidents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What was the incident that led to the trial?

On May 16, 2023, at approximately 10:08 p.m., a shooting occurred at the Campland on the Bay RV Resort in Pacific Beach, resulting in the death of Ryan Abbott. Michael Lawrence Callahan is accused of fatally shooting Abbott during an argument.

What evidence was presented in the trial?

The trial included audio recordings capturing the gunshot that led to Abbott’s death. These recordings were presented as key evidence in the case against Callahan.

What is the current status of the trial?

The trial is ongoing, with further proceedings scheduled in the coming weeks. Callahan has pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and remains in custody without bail.

What is the background of the incident?

Pacific Beach, a neighborhood in San Diego, has experienced several violent incidents in recent years. The shooting at the Campland on the Bay RV Resort in May 2023 is part of ongoing concerns about safety in the area.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Location Campland on the Bay RV Resort, 2200 block of Pacific Beach Drive, San Diego, California
Victim Ryan Abbott
Suspect Michael Lawrence Callahan
Incident Date May 16, 2023
Time of Shooting Approximately 10:08 p.m.
Cause of Death Gunshot wound to the chest
Trial Evidence Audio recordings capturing the gunshot
Current Status Trial ongoing; Callahan pleads not guilty; remains in custody without bail

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