Decades-Old Cold Case Resolved: Four Arrested in 2004 Chula Vista Stabbing Death
Chula Vista, CA – January 20, 2026 – After more than two decades, authorities have announced the arrest of four men in connection with the 2004 murder of 22-year-old Ryan Cunningham. The arrests, made public on Monday, bring a measure of closure to a case that has remained unsolved for years.
The 2004 Murder
On March 20, 2004, Ryan Cunningham was attacked while sitting on the patio of La Bella’s Pizza Garden in Chula Vista. According to the San Diego County District attorney’s Office, Cunningham was beaten by a group of men wielding various weapons before being fatally stabbed [1]. He later died at a local hospital.
The Arrests
The four men now facing charges are Jose Roque-Garcia, 50; Carlos Herrera, 42; Marco Herrera, 41; and Franco Dominguez, 43. all four were arraigned in a downtown San Diego courtroom on Tuesday morning [1]. Jose Roque-Garcia was already in custody as December, facing separate murder charges in South Bay. The other three were booked into jail last Thursday.
Ongoing Inquiry
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the evidence that led to the arrests after so many years. However, the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office and the Chula Vista Police Department publicly appealed for facts last year, noting that the murder occurred during several private events, including a baby shower, and was potentially witnessed by numerous people [1].
Current Status and Next Steps
All four defendants are currently being held without bail. The case is now proceeding through the San Diego County court system.The District Attorney’s office is preparing for trial, and the defendants will have the opportunity to mount a defense. This case highlights the dedication of law enforcement to pursuing justice,even decades after a crime has been committed.
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