Chollas Creek Open Space Park, San Diego, January 6, 2026
Anthony Robert Padilla and Joseph Montoya Bartolome were sentenced to life without parole after being convicted of the first-degree murder of Alfred Reyes in Chollas Creek Open Space Park. The shooting occurred in May 2021 and involved the victim being shot from a vehicle. Following a six-month investigation, both men were found guilty, facing additional time for firearm use and gang-related charges.
San Diego, California
Two Men Sentenced to Life Without Parole for 2021 Chollas Creek Shooting
Anthony Robert Padilla, 66, and Joseph Montoya Bartolome, 43, have been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the 2021 fatal shooting of Alfred Reyes in Chollas Creek Open Space Park.
Details of the Crime
On May 19, 2021, the body of 40-year-old Alfred Reyes was discovered off a trail in Chollas Creek Open Space Park. Investigations revealed that at least one of the defendants shot Reyes from a vehicle before disposing of his body in the park. Both Padilla and Bartolome were arrested approximately six months later in connection with the crime.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
A San Diego jury convicted both men of first-degree murder, with special circumstance allegations of lying in wait, making them eligible for life without parole sentences. In addition to the life sentences, both men received 25 years to life for firearm use allegations. Gang-related allegations were also found true against both defendants.
Background Information
Chollas Creek Open Space Park is a public park in San Diego, known for its trails and natural surroundings. The case drew significant attention due to the nature of the crime and the lengthy investigation leading to the convictions.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Alfred Reyes, 40-year-old man |
| Defendants | Anthony Robert Padilla, 66; Joseph Montoya Bartolome, 43 |
| Crime Location | Chollas Creek Open Space Park, San Diego |
| Crime Date | May 19, 2021 |
| Convictions | First-degree murder, special circumstances of lying in wait, firearm use, gang-related allegations |
| Sentences | Life without parole, 25 years to life for firearm use |
| Investigation Duration | Approximately six months |
| Park Features | Trails, natural surroundings |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who were the victims in the Chollas Creek shooting?
The victim was Alfred Reyes, a 40-year-old man whose body was found in Chollas Creek Open Space Park on May 19, 2021.
What were the charges against Anthony Robert Padilla and Joseph Montoya Bartolome?
Both were convicted of first-degree murder with special circumstances of lying in wait, making them eligible for life without parole sentences. They also received 25 years to life for firearm use allegations, and gang-related allegations were found true against them.
What is the significance of the life without parole sentences?
The life without parole sentences mean that Padilla and Bartolome will spend the remainder of their lives in prison without the possibility of release.
How long did the investigation take before the arrests were made?
The investigation lasted approximately six months before Padilla and Bartolome were arrested in connection with the crime.
What is Chollas Creek Open Space Park known for?
Chollas Creek Open Space Park is a public park in San Diego, known for its trails and natural surroundings.
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