The gruesome murder happened the morning of Dec. 17. Investigators say 37-year-old Jesse Martinez beat his 82-year-old roommate at the Lancaster facility, where both men were being treated for COVID-19.
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"The suspect became upset when the victim started to pray. He then struck the victim with an oxygen tank," a sheriff's department statement said.
The victim, who did not personally know the suspect, died the day after the attack, officials added.
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Martinez is facing the murder charge with a hate crime enhancement and elder abuse. His bail was set at $1 million and he is scheduled to appear in Antelope Valley Court on Monday.
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