Santa Rosa man convicted of 2023 bar killing

Second jury finds defendant guilty of second-degree murder after initial mistrial

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A Santa Rosa man has been found guilty of second-degree murder in a fatal stabbing outside a local bar three years ago, after a previous jury failed to reach a verdict in the case.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges of the criminal justice system, with an initial mistrial leading to a second trial and conviction. It also raises questions about ensuring the right person is held accountable for violent crimes in the community.

The details

The jury of six men and six women deliberated for several days before convicting the 35-year-old defendant of second-degree murder in the 2023 killing. The initial trial had ended in a mistrial in September when the previous jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict.

  • The fatal stabbing occurred outside a local bar in Santa Rosa in 2023.
  • The first trial took place in September 2025 and ended in a mistrial.
  • The second trial concluded this week, resulting in a guilty verdict.

The players

Santa Rosa man

A 35-year-old defendant who was convicted of second-degree murder in the 2023 killing.

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What’s next

The judge will schedule a sentencing hearing for the convicted man in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of a fair and thorough judicial process, even in the face of an initial mistrial, to ensure the right person is held accountable for violent crimes in the community.