San Diego Police said Tuesday they have arrested a suspect in the Saturday night shooting of a Navy officers and his cousin in Horton Plaza.
Police said Arrow Morris, 39, was arrested in the Serra Mesa neighborhood on Monday and booked in the San Diego County Jail.
He is charged in the murder of James Celani, 43, and the attempted murder of his cousin. Celani was a lieutenant commander in the Navy.
Police said a man later identified as the suspect was outside of the Mad House Comedy Club arguing with a female just before the shooting. During that argument he forcefully took her purse and walked away from the comedy club.
While walking from the club, the man encountered the victims and without provocation, shot both of then.
Morris was also charged with robbery, dissuading a witness, and violating parole.
An official statement from the command confirms Celani as a member of the US Navy and connection with Naval Special Warfare states:
“Lieutenant Cmdr. James Vincent Celani Jr. died after being taken to a local hospital with gunshot wounds the night of Saturday, June 10. He was assigned to Naval Special Warfare command headquarters. We extend our condolences and deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and co-workers in this tragic loss. We are cooperating with local law enforcement agents in their active investigation.”
James’ Commanding Officer, Rear Admiral Tim Szymanski, Commander, Naval Special Warfare Command said: “Jim was a career Naval Aviator who devoted more than twenty years of self-less service to our nation. We grieve his sudden and senseless loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. NSW benefitted greatly from the work Jim did to support our mission, we appreciate his dedication and honor his service to our country.”
