San Diego County Man Charged with Murder After Landscaper Shooting

70-year-old Michael Anthony Burke faces murder, attempted murder charges after confrontation with two workers

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:21am

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A 70-year-old San Diego County man has been charged with murder and attempted murder after a confrontation with two landscapers that left one dead and the other hospitalized. Michael Anthony Burke of Fallbrook was arrested on Monday after allegedly firing a shotgun into a vehicle, killing Martin Lucas Esteban, an immigrant from Guatemala who was working on a nearby property.

Why it matters

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between some residents and service workers in certain California communities, as well as the potential for tragic escalation of confrontations involving firearms. It also raises questions about mental health, de-escalation training for law enforcement, and gun violence prevention measures.

The details

According to authorities, the shooting occurred around 8 p.m. on Monday on East Mission Road in Fallbrook after an argument between Burke and the two landscapers. Cellphone video verified by NBC News appears to show Burke pointing a gun through the window of the truck the landscapers were in and threatening them before a struggle ensued and the weapon went off.

  • The shooting occurred around 8 p.m. on Monday, March 21, 2026.
  • Burke was arrested on Monday, March 21, 2026.
  • Burke pleaded not guilty to the charges on Thursday, March 24, 2026.

The players

Michael Anthony Burke

A 70-year-old resident of Fallbrook, San Diego County, who has been charged with murder, attempted murder, and firing into an inhabited vehicle.

Martin Lucas Esteban

An immigrant from Guatemala who was working as a landscaper and was fatally shot by Burke.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to grant Burke bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for improved de-escalation training, mental health resources, and gun violence prevention measures to protect vulnerable service workers and promote community safety.