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Bridgeport Today
By the People, for the People
Pagans Member Seeks Dismissal of Charges in West Norriton Wawa Shootout
Defense argues lack of evidence as pretrial hearings continue ahead of May trial
Mar. 11, 2026 at 10:05am
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One of nine alleged members of the Pagans Outlaw Motorcycle Club charged in connection with a shooting outside a West Norriton Wawa is asking a judge to dismiss the case against him, arguing prosecutors lack evidence tying him to the violence. The defense attorney claims there is no proof that Manuel 'Machete' Baez-Santos, 34, of Norristown, possessed a weapon or participated in the October 2025 confrontation.
Why it matters
The Pagans Motorcycle Club is considered an outlaw motorcycle gang, and this shooting incident highlights ongoing tensions and violence between rival motorcycle clubs in the region. The case raises questions about the strength of the prosecution's evidence and the legality of the investigation tactics used.
The details
During a pretrial hearing, the defense attorney argued that even if prosecutors can place Baez-Santos near the Wawa at the time of the incident, his mere presence does not establish involvement in the shooting. Prosecutors contend there is significant circumstantial evidence linking Baez-Santos to the incident, including cellphone records and license plate reader video. The defense also challenged the legality of a search that recovered a knife.
- On October 17, 2025 at 9:12 p.m., the shooting incident occurred outside the West Norriton Wawa.
- On October 30, Baez-Santos was arrested at a Norristown residence where a knife was recovered during a search.
The players
Manuel "Machete" Baez-Santos
A 34-year-old Norristown resident and alleged member of the Pagans Outlaw Motorcycle Club who is charged in connection with the West Norriton Wawa shooting.
Brendan M. Campbell
The defense attorney representing Baez-Santos, who is arguing for the dismissal of charges against his client.
Bradley Walter Deckel
The assistant district attorney prosecuting the case and arguing that there is significant circumstantial evidence linking Baez-Santos to the incident.
Risa Vetri Ferman
The judge presiding over the pretrial hearings who will rule on the defense motions after the hearings conclude for all nine defendants.
Montgomery County District Attorney's Office
The prosecutors bringing the charges against the nine alleged Pagans members.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
