Stabbing Suspect Arrested At Hospital
A man accused of stabbing another man was arrested outside the hospital where the victim was being treated, according to recent reports. Mario Raul Martinez, 27, was allegedly high on heroin when he was discovered in the hospital parking lot with three children in his car. He had been in a fight earlier with Alex Saenz at an apartment complex on 35th and Northern Avenue. The fight was apparently over some stereo speakers. Martinez is accused of stabbing Saenz twice in the chest, then fleeing the scene. Saenz died at the hospital while undergoing treatment for his stab wounds. Martinez was arrested on suspicion of DUI as well as drug possession. With the death of Saenz, he will also face a charge of first-degree murder.
Homicide Charges in Arizona
Arizona recognizes several types of homicide charges, based on the intent of the alleged killer. Some charges carry more serious penalties than others, although all charges of manslaughter or murder are extremely serious. Among the various types of homicide charges possible in Arizona are:
- Negligent homicide. When someone clearly does not intend to cause a death but engages in some behavior that leads to the death of another person, the charge of negligent homicide may be appropriate. This is a Class 4 felony and is punishable by up to three years in prison.
- Vehicular manslaughter. This charge is often made in the case of a drunk driver who kills someone in an accident. While the defendant may not have intended to cause a death, the act of drinking and driving is so well known to be dangerous that the law allows a more serious charge against the driver than negligent homicide. Vehicular manslaughter is a Class 2 felony, punishable by up to 12.5 years in prison.
- While manslaughter is often the charge in DUI death cases, it can also be charged if a murder is seen as a “crime of passion.” As a Class 2 felony, a conviction can mean up to 12.5 years in prison.
- Second Degree Murder. If someone takes a life intentionally or with extreme indifference, the accused may face a second degree murder charge. This charge carries a maximum of 27 years in prison if the victim is an unborn child or a child under 15 years of age, and 22 years if the victim is an adult.
- First Degree Murder. If someone intentionally kills someone else in the commission of a violent felony, he or she may be charged with first degree murder. A conviction could mean life in prison or even the death penalty.
If you are facing homicide charges, it is imperative that you have sound legal advice and representation. Call the Oswalt Law Group for help immediately.