Authorities on Thursday released the name of a man who died this week in a hatchet attack near Mission Bay, while his accused killer entered a not guilty plea in court.
Officers responding to a report of an assault found David Bugaj, 69, suffering from severe head injuries in the area of Damon and Santa Fe streets at about 5 p.m. Monday, according to the San Diego Police Department. Bugaj died despite lifesaving efforts.
“Officers learned the (suspected assailant) was likely inside a travel trailer parked nearby,” SDPD Lt. Lou Maggi said. “The officers surrounded the trailer and called out for any occupants to exit.”
The suspect, Larry Raymond Rodriguez, 39, eventually emerged and surrendered. His young daughter was taken into protective custody at the scene, Maggi said.
Investigators determined that Bugaj’s injuries were inflicted by a hatchet, according to police.
Rodriguez was booked into San Diego Central Jail on suspicion of first-degree murder. He remains jailed without bail following a Thursday afternoon arraignment.
He pleaded not guilty to murder, at the hearing, plus an allegation of using a deadly weapon.
Police have disclosed no suspected motive for the alleged slaying, and the nature of the relationship between the two men, if any, remains unclear.
Updated 4:45 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026.
