Murder Charge In Cannon-Like Device Case

A San Diego County man accused of firing a cannon-like device that killed his girlfriend has been charged with murder.

District attorney’s spokesman Steve Walker said 39-year-old Richard Fox pleaded not guilty Thursday in the death of 38-year-old Jeanette Ogara.

Fox was also charged with exploding a destructive device and child endangerment, because the couple’s sleeping 4-year-old daughter was in the trailer. She escaped unharmed.

Prosecutors say Fox was drinking with Ogara and friends Tuesday in the town of Potrero when he went outside and ignited the homemade mortar device, sending shrapnel into the trailer that struck Ogara in the chest. Fox injured his leg.

Superior Court Judge Charles Ervin set bail at $3.5 million. If convicted of all charges, Fox faces life in prison without parole.-[source]