Man Could Face Death Penalty For Acampo Murders

LODI, Calif. (AP) -- A man is facing charges in the robbery killings of a San Joaquin County father and son that could make him eligible for the death penalty.

The Record of Stockton reports that 40-year-old Howard Smith was arraigned Tuesday on 10 counts, including murder. He did not enter a plea.

Prosecutors say Smith fatally shot 84-year-old William Meagher and his 48-year-old son, Jonathan Meagher, during a robbery in the Lodi community of Acampo. He's accused of lying in wait for the elder Meagher.

Authorities say he opened fire at the Meaghers' property Friday afternoon.

Smith also is charged with two counts of attempted murder for allegedly shooting at two others, one of whom was hit in the foot.

Smith declined an attorney at Tuesday's arraignment. He is due back in court on April 4.

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