Anthony Steven San Juan, a 43-year-old resident of Santa Maria, California, tragically lost his life on March 4, 2017. Known affectionately as "Tony," he was a beloved husband, father, and community member. Tony's life was marked by his dedication to his family and his positive outlook on life. He was a devoted father to his son Noah and daughter Shiloh, and a loving husband to his wife Sara.
Tony's sudden death left a profound impact on his family and the community, who remembered him for his kindness, integrity, and adventurous spirit.
Tony's death was the result of a shooting incident that occurred in the early hours of March 4, 2017, behind Elmer's bar in Old Town Orcutt. The incident, described by many as a senseless act of violence, took place around 1:30 a.m. During the investigation, Santa Barbara County Sheriff's detectives identified Jonathan David Highley, a 35-year-old resident of Orcutt, as the primary suspect. Highley, who lived directly behind the bar, had been involved in altercations with several bar patrons earlier that night. After leaving the bar, he retrieved a gun and mistakenly shot Tony, believing him to be one of the individuals he had argued with earlier.
Following the shooting, Highley fled the scene but was apprehended later that morning as he attempted to leave his home with his wife and children. Highley's wife, Mayra Perez, was also arrested for her involvement in the incident. Perez, who was in the United States illegally, was charged with being an accessory to murder after the fact and aiding and abetting. She pleaded no contest to the charges in June 2017 and was sentenced to a year in jail before being deported.
The legal proceedings against Highley culminated in a trial where he was found guilty of first-degree murder and assault with a firearm. In January 2019, Highley was sentenced to 54 years to life in prison for his crimes. The case drew significant attention from the local community, who mourned the loss of Tony and rallied in support of his family. Vigils and memorials were held to honor Tony's memory, highlighting the deep sense of loss felt by those who knew him.
Tony's death not only brought to light the tragic consequences of senseless violence but also underscored the importance of community support in times of grief. His legacy continues to live on through the memories shared by his loved ones and the impact he had on those around him.
