Three suspects accused of murdering the Careaga family were ordered held without bail Tuesday. They pleaded not guilty to 16 felony counts, including aggravated murder.
Detectives linked Robert J. Watson III, Johnny J. Watson and Danie J. Kelly Jr to the shooting deaths of four members of the Careaga family. The suspects are members of a notorious motorcycle gang called the Banditos that has been linked to drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, and other organized crime.
The three men were arrested and held without bail after being charged with capital murder, despite the fact that the state Supreme Court struck down capital punishment in 2018.
Kitsap County Sheriff’s detectives investigated the shooting deaths of four family members and found that the suspects acted suspiciously to cover their tracks.
Detectives believe there are more people involved in the shootings and arson at the Careaga’s home.
Their motive is unclear, but it involves drugs, money, and personality conflicts.
Police received cooperation from the Bandidos motorcycle club in this investigation and do not think they will try to intimidate witnesses or those coming forward with information, but there is still concern that may occur.
Gundrum said the Kitsap County community has been amazing and has provided tips up to this point. She added that now is the time to help hold these men accountable.
For more on this story, please consider these sources:
- Careaga family murder: Timeline of the investigation and arrests made – Fox 13
- Detectives: Killing of Washington family linked to drugs – The Associated Press
- Bandido gang embers assisted police in 2017 Seabeck murder investigation – K5